Brentford v Chelsea: probable line-ups and latest team news

Brentford host Chelsea at the Gtech Community Stadium in the fifth round of the English league season, with both sides expected to make changes for the Premier League meeting.

Brentford

Keith Andrews is set to name a competitive Brentford side despite a number of absences. Collins, Sepp van den Berg, Benjamin Fredrick, Josh Dasilva and Kaye Furo are injured, while Mathias Jensen remains doubtful. Antoni Milambo is suspended.

Andrews is expected to reshape his defence by pairing Jannik Schuster with Kristoffer Ajer. Mamadou Sangare could start in midfield alongside Vitaly Janelt, adding strength in the centre of the pitch.

Dango Ouattara’s pace on the wing is likely to be preferred as Brentford look to stretch Chelsea’s defensive shape and create openings for Igor Thiago, who should lead the attack.

Brentford probable XI: Caoimhin Kelleher; Keane Lewis-Potter, Jannik Schuster, Kristoffer Ajer, Michael Kayode; Vitaly Janelt, Mamadou Sangare; Kevin Schade, Mikkel Damsgaard, Dango Ouattara; Igor Thiago.

Chelsea

Joao Pedro is a doubt for Chelsea, which could lead manager Xabi Alonso to select Danny Welbeck as his central striker. Welbeck is expected to be supported by Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers in the attacking positions.

In midfield, Reece James could move infield to partner Romeo Lavia in the absence of Moises Caicedo. That would allow Pedro Neto and Jorrel Hato to operate in the wing-back roles.

Marco Palestra, Moises Caicedo and Jordan Henderson are all expected to miss the match.

Chelsea’s goalkeeper is likely to be Emiliano Martinez, with Wesley Fofana, Maxence Lacroix and Levi Colwill forming a back three.

Chelsea probable XI: Emiliano Martinez; Wesley Fofana, Maxence Lacroix, Levi Colwill; Pedro Neto, Romeo Lavia, Reece James, Jorrel Hato; Cole Palmer, Morgan Rogers; Danny Welbeck.

Brentford v Chelsea betting odds

The match will take place as part of the fifth round of the English championship. Brentford are priced at 2.70 to win, while the odds for a draw are 3.70. Chelsea are available at 2.20.