Estevao Willian at the centre of bold Enzo Maresca call in Chelsea projected XI

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Chelsea return to Premier League action on Saturday lunchtime, opening the weekend away at Turf Moor against Burnley.

The Blues have enjoyed a dominant run in recent visits to Burnley, winning their last five matches by an aggregate score of 19-3.

Enzo Maresca faces a number of selection dilemmas for this match, especially with two more important fixtures coming up in quick succession.

Chelsea play Barcelona and Arsenal within five days of each other at Stamford Bridge, so squad rotation will be key to keep everyone fit and fresh.

Maresca is expected to rotate against Burnley, and here is HITC’s prediction for how they will line up.

Predicted Chelsea line-up for Burnley clash

With Filip Jorgensen looking for a January exit, Robert Sanchez is expected to stay between the posts, as he has for most of the season.

Malo Gusto is set to play at right-back, with Reece James likely being rested ahead of two big matches that follow.

Wesley Fofana will line up at centre-back, where several spots remaining open due to Levi Colwill’s absence.

Alongside him will be Josh Acheampong, who has gained more minutes with England U21s over the international break.

Jorrel Hato, who struggled at the heart of the defence against Qarabag, will be looking to make an impact in his preferred left-back position.

In midfield, Enzo Fernandez will wear the armband. Despite sitting out the international break with fitness concerns, he’s reported to be ready to play.

Andrey Santos will partner him in central midfield. Due to his participation in every minute of South American international matches during the break, Moises Caicedo is set to begin the game as a substitute.

Despite Estevao Willian’s strong form both domestically and internationally, Pedro Neto keeps his spot for now. The Portugal forward did not feature during his national team’s fixtures.

After spending most of the season playing up front, Joao Pedro will have another opportunity to start in his preferred number 10 position.

Alejandro Garnacho, who has recently been in strong form for Chelsea, is expected to continue his good run on the left flank.

Liam Delap is still seeking his first Premier League goal, and his next opportunity to find the net is likely to be against Burnley as he aims to regain full fitness and sharpness.