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Chelsea will host host Premier League newcomers Luton Town at the Bridge on Friday, August 25.
It would be a battle between big-spending Chelsea versus frugal Luton Town when the two sides clash at Stamford Bridge.
Despite spending over £345.9m this summer, Chelsea is still in search of a first league win of the season. The arrival of Todd Boehly saw the Stamford Bridge outfit splash out £601.7m last season, amounting to almost £1billion since the departure of Roman Abramovic.
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13:39 - 23.08.2023
Chelsea news: Mykhailo Mudryk missing from training ahead of Luton clash
Chelsea star Mykhailo Mudryk was absent from training on Wednesday as Mauricio Pochettino's men ramped up their preparations to face Luton Town on Friday night.
In contrast, Luton Town have only managed to spend a meagre £17m on new arrivals. This encounter looks an uneven match in terms of financial capabilities.
The Blues were frustrated by Liverpool during their 23/24 English Premier League opener at Stamford Bridge.
Luis Diaz put Liverpool in front in the 18th minute, but Alex Disasi drew Chelsea level with few minutes before the interval.
Although Chelsea had the better chances, they couldn't find a way past Alisson in Liverpool's goal.
Meanwhile, Luton Town received a baptism of fire in their first game of the season. They were thrashed 4-1 by a ruthless Brighton side.
Chelsea vs Luton Town - Match Preview
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Going into this game, Chelsea will be seeking redemption after falling to a 3-1 defeat at London rivals West Ham.
The Hammer went in front when Aguerd met a perfect delivery from a corner by James WardProwse and headed in.
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19:41 - 23.08.2023
If I am Caicedo or Lavia, I'm going to Liverpool — Chelsea legend blasts duo
Former Arsenal midfielder Emmanuel Petit slams Caicedo and Lavia for rejecting Liverpool for Chelsea.
Chelsea, through England U20 star Carney Chukwuemeka responded with a well-taken goal.
Despite West Ham being reduced to ten men after Aguerd was sent off, Chelsea still couldn't profit from playing with a man advantage for over half an hour.
£105m man Enzo Fernandez had a chance to put Chelsea in control of the tie but saw his penalty saved. The Blues would later be punished for all their missed chances.
After a brilliant hold-up play, Michael Antonio put the Hammers ahead, and Chelsea were desperate to find a way back into the tie.
Mauricio Pochettino introduced new £115m signing Moises Caicedo. Rather than impress, the Ecuadorian had a debut to forget, giving away a penalty that Lucas Paqueta converted.
Meanwhile, Luton Town had their second game against fellow newcomers Burnley postponed due to redevelopment work continuing at Kenilworth Road, with a new date to be announced later.
Chelsea's new boss will be under pressure to perform, especially in a game like this. Anything other than a win will be seen as a disappointment.
Chelsea vs Luton Town - Possible Lineup
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Moises Caicedo, Romeo Lavia, and Enzo Fernandez would be expected to start in midfield for Chelsea.
After a stellar performance against West Ham, Raheem Sterling would likely start on the wing, while Nicolas Jackson would lead the line again.
The injury to captain Reece James will mean Marlo Gusto will start at right-back; Thiago Silva and Disasi will pair at centre-back with Ben Chilwell on the left.
For Luton Town, coach Rob Edwards will likely retain his starting 11 from the defeat at the Amex Stadium.
Edward's favoured 3-5-2 formation will be employed again to try and stifle Chelsea' midfield firepower.
With three at the back, the 'Hatters' would try to peg back Chelsea's attacking fullbacks.
Chelsea vs Luton Town - Prediction, Time and Where To Watch
The third round of Premier League matches will kick off on Friday, August 25th, when Chelsea welcomes Luton Town to Stamford Bridge at 8:00pm Nigerian time.
It would be interesting to see how Pochettino's side will respond after the defeat by West Ham in their last game.
However, I don't think Luton Town will be too much trouble for Chelsea. Prediction: Chelsea 2 Luton Town 0.
You can follow the match live on Dstv Supersports and Sky Sports UK. Pulse Sports Nigeria will also provide timely updates across our social media platforms before, during, and after the game.
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