According to a report by Football London on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, Chelsea will aim to continue their winning momentum when they travel to the Stadium of Light to face bottom-placed Sunderland on Sunday in their final match before the November international break.

Xabi Alonso’s side returned to winning ways with an important 2-0 victory over Manchester United after suffering consecutive defeats against Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool. The win moved Chelsea above Liverpool into fourth place in the Premier League table, and another three points could see them overtake Brighton to climb into third.

Mike Penders is expected to retain his place in goal despite Emiliano Martinez recovering from his jaw injury sooner than initially expected. However, the Argentine shot-stopper still needs protective equipment, while Penders’ recent displays have improved his chances of remaining Chelsea’s first-choice goalkeeper.

Maxence Lacroix’s hamstring injury has further weakened Chelsea’s defensive options, making a traditional back four the most likely setup against Sunderland. Levi Colwill and Wesley Fofana are expected to partner each other at centre-back.

Josh Acheampong should continue at right-back after establishing himself as a key member of Alonso’s defensive unit. Meanwhile, summer signing Pep Chavarria could return to the starting lineup at left-back, having shown that he is better suited to the conventional full-back role than Marco Palestra.

Romeo Lavia is also expected to keep his place in midfield following his impressive performance against Manchester United. Although concerns remain about his fitness after starting three consecutive matches, Chelsea have had enough time to recover ahead of Sunday's encounter. Lavia is therefore likely to partner Moises Caicedo in the centre of midfield.

In the attacking positions, Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers are expected to feature, while Estevao Willian could be handed another opportunity on the right wing after producing an encouraging display against United and delighting the Stamford Bridge crowd.

Alonso’s biggest selection decision is likely to concern the centre-forward position. Pedro Neto could continue as a false nine despite struggling to make a significant impact against Manchester United, with Danny Welbeck providing an alternative option.

Nevertheless, Alonso’s strong admiration for Neto could work in the Portuguese winger’s favour, allowing him to retain his starting position while Welbeck begins the match on the bench.

Predicted Chelsea XI (4-2-3-1): Penders; Acheampong, Colwill, Fofana, Chavarria; Lavia, Caicedo; Estevao, Palmer, Rogers; Neto.