According to ESPN on Monday, October 26, 2026, Chelsea will travel to Anfield on Wednesday to take on Liverpool in the fourth round of the EFL Cup. Following their unexpected 2-0 Premier League defeat to Tottenham Hotspur at Stamford Bridge, Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso will be determined to get his team back on track. Winning the encounter would provide a much-needed confidence boost and improve the Blues' chances of competing for a trophy this season. Alonso is also expected to consider a few adjustments to his starting eleven ahead of the important fixture. Here is how Chelsea could line up against Liverpool.

Formation: 3-4-2-1

Goalkeeper: Mike Penders

Defence: Josh Acheampong, Maxence Lacroix, Levi Colwill

Midfield: Pedro Neto, Moises Caicedo, Jordan Henderson, Marco Palestra

Attacking midfield: Estevao Willian, Morgan Rogers

Forward: Danny Welbeck

Mike Penders could continue as Chelsea's first-choice goalkeeper for the match despite his difficult outing against Tottenham. Alonso may decide to show confidence in the youngster by allowing him another chance to demonstrate his abilities. Meanwhile, Josh Acheampong, Maxence Lacroix and Levi Colwill are tipped to start together in a three-man defence. They must remain disciplined and work effectively as a unit to limit Liverpool's attacking threat.

Pedro Neto could be deployed on the right side of midfield, while Marco Palestra may start on the opposite flank. Both players will be expected to contribute defensively while providing attacking support whenever Chelsea move forward. In the centre of midfield, Moises Caicedo could team up with Jordan Henderson, with the pair expected to use their work rate, experience and ball-winning abilities to help Chelsea dictate the tempo.

In the final third, Estevao Willian and Morgan Rogers could occupy the attacking midfield roles behind the main striker. Their pace, creativity and movement between the lines could prove important in breaking down Liverpool's defence and creating opportunities to score.

Danny Welbeck is expected to lead Chelsea's attack as the lone forward. His experience, intelligent positioning and movement could help him exploit spaces in Liverpool's defence, while he will also be responsible for taking advantage of the scoring chances created by his teammates.

With a place in the next round at stake, Chelsea must improve considerably on their recent performance against Tottenham. Alonso will hope his tactical decisions and potential lineup changes help the team regain its confidence and secure a positive result at Anfield.