Chelsea managed to rest a number of players against Derby County in the Carabao Cup midweek.

Sunday’s opponents Crystal Palace made similar changes versus Middlesbrough but the move didn’t work out so well for manager Roy Hodgson, as the goal-shy Eagles went down 1-0 to the Championship club.

Eden Hazard was rested for the Derby game after recovering from a back injury that kept him out of the 4-0 win over Burnley. He is expected to be fit for the Palace clash on Sunday.

Pedro is also back in contention after having to be substituted last weekend with a stomach bug. He made an appearance as a sub on Wednesday evening, coming on to replace Ruben Loftus-Cheek for the final 20 minutes.

Olivier Giroud is the only other injury doubt. The French striker was rested midweek due to a leg injury but could be back for the game at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.

Crystal Palace have three players out injured; two for the long term. Christian Benteke will not return before the New Year after knee surgery, while Scott Dann is still slowly building up his fitness as he makes his long-awaited return from a knee ligament injury.

Joel Ward is closer to making his comeback. The fullback suffered a muscular injury against Everton last month, and while he is close to full fitness, it is unlikely he’ll be risked against Chelsea.

Chelsea’s Predicted XI to face Crystal Palace:

Kepa, Azpilicueta, David Luiz, Rudiger, Alonso, Kante, Jorginho, Barkley, Willian, Morata, Hazard

Crystal Palace’s Predicted XI:

Hennessey, Wan Bissaka, Tomkins, Sakho, van Aanholt, McArthur, Milivojevic, Kouyate, Townsend, Ayew, Zaha

Predicted Score – Chelsea to win 3-0