After giving a number of Chelsea youngsters the chance to shine against Grimsby Town in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday, Frank Lampard will recall many of his senior players as Premier League football returns to Stamford Bridge.
Reece James, 19, was particularly impressive against Grimsby but Cesar Azpilicueta should return at right-back against Brighton on Saturday.
Antonio Rudiger is still likely to be short of fitness but Andreas Christensen, who went off after 42 minutes against Liverpool last Sunday, could be back after Lampard said his injury was not too “severe”.
The midfield trio of N’Golo Kante, Mateo Kovacic and Jorginho is likely to be restored for the visit of Brighton, but ahead of them is where Lampard has decisions to make.
Callum Hudson-Odoi returned to action on Wednesday after a lengthy absence, while Christian Pulisic also made an appearance.
However they will be hard placed to dislodge Mason Mount and Tammy Abraham, who have started the season so well.
Brazilian winger Willian could complete the front three.
As for Brighton, Graham Potter has plenty of injury concerns. Leandro Trossard, Ezequiel Schelotto, Jose Izquierdo, Leon Balogun and Shane Duffy are all out.
Bernardo is almost definitely out, but there is a better chance for Solomon March and Alirexa Jahanbakhsh - and Neal Maupay will be back.
Predicted lineup
Chelsea (4-3-3): Kepa; Azpilicueta, Christensen, Tomori, Alonso; Kante, Jorginho, Kovacic; Willian, Abraham, Mount
