new era gets underway at Chelsea this evening as Thomas Tuchel takes charge of his first match, with Wolves visiting Stamford Bridge.
All eyes will be on the first team he picks – and particularly whether Kai Havertz and Timo Werner are given starts.
The German has been charged with the responsibility of turning the expensive duo’s form around – after Frank Lampard’s failure to get the best out the summer signings contributed to his sacking on Monday.
Werner’s last significant act under the former manager was to miss a late penalty against Luton.
Both he and Havertz have been dropped from key games in recent weeks as Chelsea’s form has plummeted.
N’Golo Kante is close to recovery from a hamstring injury, but may have to wait until Burnley on Sunday to make his comeback.
It will be fascinating to see how Tuchel handles Kepa Arrizabalaga, who was going to be allowed to leave this month after being displaced by Edouard Mendy as No1.
Likewise Germany international Antonio Rudiger – although he had come back into favour before Lampard’s departure.
Steven Gerrard ‘gutted’ for Frank Lampard after Chelsea sacking
Chelsea predicted team (4-3-3): Mendy; James, Rudiger, Thiago, Chilwell; Havertz, Jorginho, Mount; Ziyech, Werner, Pulisic
