Wolverhampton is having a rather challenging season and is unlikely to join the race for European competitions. However, relegation is not a significant threat to the Wolves, given their 10-point lead. After 17 rounds, Gary O’Neill’s team has gathered 19 points, with 12 of them earned at home. Currently, they are on a six-match unbeaten streak at Molineux, including three wins and as many draws. On their home turf, Wolverhampton relies on solid defensive performances. In the last six matches, they conceded more than one goal only against Newcastle (2-2). In the previous round, the Wolves suffered a crushing 0-3 defeat to West Ham away, and they will undoubtedly seek redemption today. There are no significant squad issues, and the team focused on preparing for the clash with Chelsea, against whom they haven’t lost in their last three home meetings.
Chelsea pleased their fans with two consecutive successful matches. First, they confidently defeated Sheffield United in the Premier League (2-0), and then, in the League Cup quarter-final, they overcame Newcastle in a penalty shootout at Stamford Bridge. However, their away performances have been less impressive, suffering three consecutive defeats to Newcastle (1-4), Manchester United (1-2), and Everton (0-2). It’s worth noting that in these matches, Chelsea struggled to score more than one goal. After reaching the League Cup semi-finals, Mauricio Pochettino expressed his satisfaction, acknowledging that luck was on their side. However, he also highlighted that the game demanded a lot from the players. Enzo Fernandes requested substitution, Colwill, as per the head coach’s admission, felt fatigued after the first half. Additionally, due to injuries, defenders Reece James, Ben Chilwell, and Marc Cucurella, midfielder Kerna Chukwuemeka, and goalkeeper Robert Sanchez will be unavailable for today’s match in Wolverhampton.
