Chelsea host Brighton & Hove Albion at Stamford Bridge on Sunday afternoon, and Mauricio Pochettino will be looking for a response.

Pochettino watched from the stands as his team capitulated in the second half, resulting in a 4-1 defeat against Newcastle United. Captain Reece James was also sent off for a second yellow card.

Chelsea let the travelling fans and themselves down at St. James’ Park. A loss to Brighton, who have gone seven games without losing in all competitions, will likely place them in the bottom half at the end of the gameweek.

“It was a tough week for everyone,” reflected Pochettino. “I am very happy because they’ve reacted very well. When you watch the game, it was worse than my feelings after the game. I was tough with them inside and outside.”

In goal, Robert Sanchez will remain. Marc Cucurella (suspended) and Reece James (suspended) are both out, and Malo Gusto appears to be out due to injury. Pochettino will have to make a decision at right-back, with Axel Disasi perhaps returning to the side to cover the vacancy.

Moises Caicedo is poised to face his former club and will be joined in midfield by Enzo Fernandez, while Conor Gallagher will be hoping to retain his spot. Romeo Lavia is doubtful, but a late fitness test will determine whether he makes the team.

Following a knee injury, Christopher Nkunku is nearing a comeback to the team, but a late decision on the France international will also be made.

“We need to assess (on Saturday) and then decide,” revealed Pochettino on Friday regarding Lavia and Nkunku.

“They are close. But we need tomorrow to make the decision. Maybe Lavia is the more difficult, but we need to assess Christoph for tomorrow.”

On Sunday, Nicolas Jackson, Raheem Sterling, and Cole Palmer will all be hoping for another chance to lead the Chelsea assault.

Chelsea’s predicted starting XI: Sanchez, Disasi, Badiashile, Silva, Colwill, Caicedo, Enzo, Gallagher, Sterling, Jackson, Palmer.