Chelsea will head into the game against Manchester United on Saturday afternoon in confident mood.

Maurizio Sarri’s side haven’t lost since the Community Shield defeat to Manchester City, and sit joint top of the table after eight games played. United, in contrast, have been in a state of crisis, and only narrowly beat struggling Newcastle last time out after going 2-0 down.

In terms of team news, defender Antonio Rudiger remains a doubt for the Blues. The centre-back did not feature for Germany during the international break due to a groin problem. Ruben Loftus-Cheek looks likely to be in contention for the substitutes’ bench after skipping England duty to aid his recovery from a foot injury.

The only other concern is Ethan Ampadu. The teenager sustained a knee strain whilst away with Wales and is a minor doubt for the weekend.

For United, Jesse Lingard looks set to miss out on the clash at Stamford Bridge. The forward missed England’s two games against Croatia and Spain due to a groin injury, but despite working hard to be fit for the weekend, it appears he won’t recover in time.

Nemanja Matic is also a major doubt for the game. The Serbian international has a back injury and has been undergoing treatment at United’s Carrington training base.

Marouane Fellaini (groin), Luke Shaw (thigh) could both be back in time to face Chelsea, while Ander Herrera and Marcos Rojo are back in full training.

Chelsea’s Predicted XI To Face Manchester United:

Kepa

Azpilicueta, Cahill, David Luiz, Marcos Alonso

Kante, Jorginho, Kovacic

Willian, Giroud, Hazard

Predicted Score: Chelsea to win 2-0