Chelsea:
Antonio Rudiger is the only major concern for the Blues, having picked up a shoulder knock against West Ham last weekend. Club captain Gary Cahill could make his first start of the season at the heart of central defence. Olivier Giroud is also expected to start ahead of the misfiring Spaniard Alvaro Morata.
Liverpool:
Despite scoring a stunner in midweek, Daniel Sturridge is unlikely to force his way into the starting lineup, instead retaining his place on the bench. Usual front three Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino and newly-crowned Puskas award winner Mo Salah are all expected to start. Virgil van Dijk is a doubt, and he may not be fit to start.
Maurizio Sarri on star man Eden Hazard:
"Of course [he is more intense in matches than training], every player prefers to play than work without the ball. He needs more continuity in the physical and mental point of view.
"He is one of the best. I’m absolutely convinced he can improve. I think we’ve only seen 75-80% of his potential. If he can improve, he can be the best in the world.
"It’s very difficult to compare [if he is the best player I have coached]. He’s a genius. He’s unique. He has the opportunity to improve more. Technically he’s the best. I want him to be the best in the world."
Jurgen Klopp on the pressure that Liverpool face and Virgil van Dijk's availability:
"We all get judged constantly and for the boys it's much more important what I think than what you think.
"I can imagine there are people saying 'thank God the others are coming back' but these boys did a really good job. If Virgil is fit and can play, then he will play.
"If not, then obviously we have options and that's really good. For that, yes, his impact is always obvious.
"But we could play football before Virgil van Dijk and we can play football without Virgil van Dijk, thank God.
Form:
Chelsea possible starting lineup:
Kepa; Alonso, Luiz, Cahill, Azpilicueta; Kovacic, Jorginho, Kante; Hazard, Giroud, Willian
Liverpool possible starting lineup:
Alisson; Robertson, Van Dijk, Gomez, Alexander-Arnold; Milner, Henderson, Wijnaldum; Mane, Firmino, Salah
BeSoccer prediction: 4-4