Overview
- Enzo Maresca confirmed Liam Delap is available after his Dec. 6 shoulder injury and Estêvão returns from a minor muscle issue.
- Maresca said Cole Palmer has completed his managed minutes progression and is ready to play the full match.
- The Chelsea head coach will be in the stands under a one‑match touchline ban after receiving his third yellow card of the season.
- Aston Villa arrive on a 10‑game winning run in all competitions and hold a seven‑point lead over fourth‑placed Chelsea.
- Longer‑term absentees persist for Chelsea, with Dario Essugo back in training but Romeo Lavia and Levi Colwill still unavailable.