Welcome to a new series on predicted lineups and team news from all Premier League clubs from injury guru Ben Dinnery ahead of the upcoming Gameweek.

Arsenal

Mikel Arteta brought in three new faces (GW2) – one enforced due to the late withdrawal of Kieran Tierney – and despite the Gunners maintaining their 100 per cent record, it was hard-fought which could prompt a change in personnel. Ainsley Maitland-Niles was unfortunate to miss out altogether – sidestepping for Bukayo Saka – while Eddie Nketiah grabbed the winner within minutes of his introduction. David Luiz is fully fit, and the question remains, will the Brazilian be handed a recall? With a Carabao Cup tie to be played at Leicester, the starting XI could give us some insight into how Arteta will line-up at Anfield on Monday evening.

Predicted lineup

Press Conference Update

Kieran Tierney (tight groin) and Sokratis (calf) should resume full training ahead of the Liverpool game, and with the trip to Anfield taking place on Monday, the additional recovery time could benefit those returners. Cedric Soares (calf tightness) was not be risked in the Carabao Cup, although he hasn’t yet made the matchday squad this season. Emile Smith Rowe is expected to rejoin the group in around 7-10 days.

Pending Evaluation

Sokratis Papastathopoulos (Calf) – Sustained mild strain to right calf. Expected to rejoin the group in full training this week.
Kieran Tierney (Groin) – Will train ahead of Monday nights’ game.
Cedric Soares (Calf) – Assessed ahead of the trip to Anfield.

Ruled Out

Shkodran Mustafi (hamstring) – Targeting a return-to-training in October.
Pablo Mari (ankle) – Hopefully training with the group later this month.
Gabriel Martinelli (knee surgery) – RTP in early 2021.
Calum Chambers (ACL rupture) – Potential RTT before the end of the year.
Emile Smith Rowe (Shoulder) – Protective sling will be removed by the end of this week. Aiming to rejoin the group in 7-10 days.

Banned

None

Return to Competition

No further reported issues.

Aston Villa

The Villains got off to a winning start on Monday, and providing those involved can come through this week unscathed, then I see no reason for Dean Smith to change his side.

Predicted lineup

Press Conference Update

Dean Smith rang the changes in the cup – eleven in total – which included a start for new boy Bertrand Traore who duly opened his account with a well-taken volley. “I’m very happy to score on my debut. I just decided that when I got the ball I wanted to put it in [with] one touch, I was a bit lucky, but you have to try,” he beamed post-match. However, the Burkina Faso international might have to settle for a place on the bench as I expect Villa to revert to the side which scraped a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Sheffield United (GW2).

Pending Evaluation

None

Ruled Out

Tom Heaton (ACL knee) – The goalkeeper is eyeing a return after the international break.
Wesley (ACL knee) – Taking part in aspects of first-team training.
Bjorn Engels (Thigh) – The full-back was ruled out of game week two. No time frame currently.

Banned

None

Return to Competition

No further reported issues.

Brighton and Hove Albion

Graham Potter was thrilled with his sides’ performance at Newcastle on Sunday, and you suspect that changes will be kept to a minimum following a comprehensive 0-3 victory. Yves Bissouma is suspended after receiving a straight red, and with Dale Stephens struggling with injury – and linked with a move away – Adam Lallana could find himself back in the side. The Seagulls feature in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday, but Potter may opt for a complete change of personnel as he did in Round Two.

Predicted lineup

Press Conference Update

The Seagulls made a host of changes in the cup, but Graham Potter should revert to a similar side which took all three-points on Tyneside. Tariq Lamptey, who went off on the hour mark at St James’ Park, trained normally on Thursday and Aaron Connolly is fine after complaining of discomfort in his thigh. Yves Bissouma serves the second of his three-game ban while Jose Izquierdo, Florin Andone and Christian Walton remain long-term absentees. Molumby could be included after Potter confirmed his absence in the cup was “precautionary for the weekend” although he gave no indication to what extent. “Jayson has got some fantastic attributes, great qualities. He’s a really competitive guy, wants to play.” The 21-year-old is yet to make an appearance in the Premier League.

Pending Evaluation

Tariq Lamptey (Groin) – Took a few knocks on Tyneside. Trained normally on Thursday and should be fine.

Ruled Out

Jose Izquierdo (Knee surgery) – Integrating himself back into full training.
Christian Walton (Ankle) – Hopeful that the injury will be weeks as opposed to months.
Florin Andone (Knee) – Ruled out for the remainder of the year.

Banned

Yves Bissouma – Serves the second game of his three-match ban.

Return to Competition

No further reported issues.

Burnley

With a mounting injury list, Sean Dyche is desperate to bolster his threadbare squad before the transfer window shuts. At Leicester on Sunday, the Clarets included three members of the development side to boost numbers while Jimmy Dunne, 22, made his Premier League bow. James Tarkowski is hoping to feature in the Carabao Cup, but another rib injury for Robbie Brady means the Republic of Ireland international is a slight concern.

Predicted lineup

Press Conference Update

Sean Dyche will consider adding new signing Dale Stephens to the squad for Saturday, but Jay Rodriguez looks like he will miss the game after suffering an ankle injury in the Carabao Cup. It sounds as if an ongoing toe issue will keep James Tarkowski out again. “I’ve not been preparing without Tarky,” Dyche told reporters when asked about the defender being linked with a move to West Ham. “He’ll get fit and enjoy his time playing with us again.” Ben Mee has an outside chance of joining the group next week, but it could be after the international break before the long-termers return. Ashley Barnes enjoyed an hour-long run out for the U23s, and the Clarets striker is pencilled in to feature for the development side again on Friday as he continues his recovery from a hernia problem. Josh Brownhill could play on the right if Robbie Brady fails to recover. “He came into the side after lockdown and did very well for us. We know he can do that. He has a great honesty and worth ethic and if we have to use him elsewhere, I am sure he will adapt.”

Pending Evaluation

James Tarkowski (Toe) – Badly bruised. Missed out in the Carabao Cup and Dyche isn’t confident that the centre-back will be ready for Saturday.
Robbie Brady (Ribs) – Bruised. Recurrence of an injury initially picked up on international duty 50/50.

Ruled Out

Ben Mee (Thigh) – “Responding well to treatment” but not yet back with the group.
Jack Cork (Ankle) – Remains unavailable for the start of the campaign with no fixed date for his return.
Ashley Barnes (Hernia) – Will look to build fitness with the Under-23s. Two scheduled games for this week.
Johann Berg Gudmundsson (MCL knee) – Not as bad as first feared but won’t be back for a while yet.

Banned

None

Return to Competition

No further reported issues.

Chelsea

Ben Chilwell and Thiago Silva will play against Barnsley on Wednesday as they continue to build fitness, but it may be too soon to consider a start in the Premier League. Andreas Christensen served his ban midweek which means Frank Lampard is likely to keep the faith after his dismissal against Liverpool. Cesar Azpilicueta is yet to start this season, and depending on his minutes midweek; he could be included. With Willy Caballero poised to start in the cup, and Edouard Mendy undergoing a medical at Stamford Bridge, Kepa, following another clanger on Sunday is fighting to retain the No.1 jersey.

Predicted lineup

Press Conference Update

Frank Lampard will decide between Kepa and Willy Caballero after confirming Edouard Mendy will not start: “He has had a long week when he has not really trained, he flew in yesterday and it feels too tight a turnaround to put him in contention.” Hakim Ziyech and Christian Pulisic are not ready, but both players are training. “We hope to have them in proper match contention over the next week or two.” Andreas Christensen is available after serving his ban in the cup.

Pending Evaluation

Edouard Mendy (Fitness) – Only just joined the club and Saturday could come too soon.

Ruled Out

Billy Gilmour (Knee Surgery) – Potential RTP in late 2020.
Hakim Ziyech (Knee) – Training with the squad again and should be in match contention in either GW4 or 5.
Christian Pulisic (Hamstring) – Training with the squad again and should be in match contention in either GW4 or 5.
Marco van Ginkel (Knee) – Long-term absentee. No timeline for the player who hasn’t played competitively for more than two years.

Banned

None

Return to Competition

Ben Chilwell (Achilles) – Played minutes in the Carabao Cup but Lampard suggests he may not start with Tottenham up just three days later.
Thiago Silva (Fitness) – Played minutes in the Carabao Cup but Lampard suggests he may not start with Tottenham up just three days later.
Andreas Christensen – Served his ban in the Carabao Cup.

Crystal Palace

The Eagles were forced into a change at Old Trafford with Scott Dann picking up a late injury, that saw Mamadou Sakho thrust back into action having just recovered from a long-term hamstring problem. Back-to-back wins is likely to mean that Luka Milivojevic, Michy Batshuayi and Eberechi Eze will need to bide their time. Christian Benteke played for the development side on Monday and could make the game-day squad.

Predicted lineup

Press Conference Update

Christian Benteke has been training and can be called upon if required, but the striker hasn’t featured since July, and with Michy Batshuayi able to back-up from the bench, he may not make the 18. Roy Hodgson confirms one or two others have started to make a brief appearance on the training pitches: “Not much beyond the warmup and any non-contact passing work,” so don’t expect those who have been out long-term to return anytime soon. Jairo Riedewald should be close after rejoining the group last Friday.

Pending Evaluation

Jaïro Riedewald (Muscle) – Training with the group again.
Scott Dann (Unspecified) – Missed the win at Old Trafford after suffering an injury in training. No update – expected to miss out.
Christian Benteke (Fitness) – Available if required. Building fitness with the U23s and played 45-minutes on Monday.

Ruled Out

James Tomkins (Thigh) – Long term absentee.
Gary Cahill (Hamstring) – Long term absentee but progressing well. Could return next month.
Patrick van Aanholt (Shoulder) – Won’t be back before the international break.
Nathan Ferguson (Knee) – Individualised programme. No timeline.
Connor Wickham (Muscle) – Took part in his first session last week. Non-contact.

Banned

None

Return to Competition

No further reported issues.

Everton

There was no update from the player or Carlo Ancelotti after hat-trick hero Dominic Calvert-Lewin was seen icing his leg following the win over West Brom; hopefully, it was only a precautionary measure, and the striker is clear. No fresh injury concerns should see the Toffees unchanged once again.

Predicted lineup

predicted lineups

Press Conference Update

Dominic Calvert-Lewin had a “little problem” with his hamstring after the game against West Brom, and once again in the Carabao Cup midweek, but Carlo Ancelotti said the striker “is OK” and he will play. There are no fresh injury concerns for the Toffees who take on Crystal Palace. Mason Holgate (toe) and Jarrad Branthwaite (ankle) remain out along with Cenk Tosun and Jean-Philippe Gbamin.

Pending Evaluation

None

Ruled Out

Jean-Philippe Gbamin (Achilles) – Surgery. No definitive timeline currently.
Cenk Tosun (ACL rupture) – Not expected to play again this year.
Mason Holgate (Toe) – Could spend up to three months on the sidelines.
Jarrad Branthwaite (Ankle) – Targeting a return after the international break (GW5).
Jonas Lossl (Back) – The extent of his injury is currently unknown.

Banned

None

Return to Competition

Dominic Calvert-Lewin (Hamstring) – Spotted icing his hamstring after the win over West Brom. Ancelotti confirms the striker will play.

Fulham

New signings Alphonse Areola and Kenny Tete were unable to stem the flow of goals on Saturday. The Lilywhites conceded four at Elland Road, and Scott Parker will be looking to address their defensive failings with Tim Ream potentially inline for a recall. Mario Lemina is edging nearer to a start with Harrison Reed the player most likely to make way. Again, the Carabao Cup should give us a little insight with a trip to Bramall Lane up next.

Predicted lineup

Press Conference Update

The Lilywhites are expected to boast a clean bill of health as Scott Parker prepares his squad for the visit of Aston Villa: “I think we’re all good. No injuries as such, just the general management of the squad,” he confirmed. Following back-to-back losses in the league, Fulham secured a much-needed, confidence-boosting win in the Carabao Cup, a result they will look to replicate at Craven Cottage.

Pending Evaluation

Jean Michael Seri (Fitness) – Played in the Carabao Cup. Assessed GW-to-GW.

Ruled Out

None

Banned

None

Return to Competition

Expected to have a clean bill of health

Leeds United

Pablo Hernandez was a late withdrawal (GW2) after complaining of a tight groin while warming up, but if the Spaniard can prove his fitness, then Leeds may revert to the side which pushed Liverpool all the way in the opener. Otherwise, big-money buy Rodrigo could make his second Premier League start.

Predicted lineup

Press Conference Update

Pablo Hernandez has been ruled out until after the international break. The Leeds midfielder was a late withdrawal (GW2) after complaining of a groin problem and Marcelo Bielsa believes he needs two weeks of recovery. Centre-back Diego Llorente, who arrived from Real Sociedad this week for around £18m, is fit and ready to play at Bramall Lane. “I think if he needed to play, he could. He was due to play against Real Madrid just before his transfer was agreed. As a result, then he’s ready for us.” Tyler Roberts could well-placed to start after replacing Rodrigo at half-time in the win over Fulham.

Pending Evaluation

None

Ruled Out

Adam Forshaw (Hip) – Taking part in aspects of first-team training and will continue to step up his recovery after close to a year out.
Gaetano Berardi (ACL knee) – Long-term. Due back at the club later this month.
Pablo Hernandez (Groin) – Bielsa confirms the midfielder will need at least two weeks to recover.

Banned

None

Return to Competition

No further reported issues.

Leicester City

Jonny Evans makes a timely return to the fold – after injury and suspension – and with reports of a groin injury for Wilfried Ndidi, the Irish international could come straight into the side. Wes Morgan is also fit again after his recent hamstring issue. With a long season ahead, Brendan Rodgers is happy to integrate James Maddison gradually having undergone hip surgery in the summer.

Predicted lineup

Press Conference Update

Brendan Rodgers confirms Wilfred Ndidi will have groin surgery after tests reveal an adductor tendon avulsion. The makeshift centre-back is expected to miss around 3 months. “It’s unfortunate. There’s no doubt he’ll be a miss.” Fortunately, Jonny Evans is back in contention after completing his ban and recovering from a thigh injury. Demarai Gray is out of the game this weekend after reports that he is feeling “unwell”… the club confirms it is not Covid-19 related. Ricardo Pereira is targeting a return in late October while new signing Cengiz Under will not be signed in time to face Man City: “His paperwork will be finalised today, and that he’ll join up with the squad over the weekend and will train next week.”

Pending Evaluation

None

Ruled Out

Ricardo Pereira (ACL rupture) – Brendan Rodgers reveals the player is targeting a return by late-October.
Filip Benkovic (Hip) – Shouldn’t be out for too long, but expected to leave on-loan.
Wilfried Ndidi (Groin) – Will undergo surgery and could miss the remainder of the year.
Cengiz Under – Awaiting international clearance.

Banned

None

Return to Competition

Jonny Evans – Back in full training and available for selection.

Liverpool

A minor knock kept Joe Gomez out of the game at Stamford Bridge, and with Joel Matip also side-lined, Jurgen Klopp dropped Fabinho into the backline and he was excellent alongside Virgil van Dijk. We also caught our first glimpse of Thiago in Red after Jordan Henderson was replaced due to a tight thigh… Klopp faces a selection headache if both players can prove their fitness ahead of Mondays’ game with Arsenal. Despite describing new boy Diogo Jota as a “pressing monster” with the technical ability to match their current front three, it’s hard to see the Portuguese international disrupting the present strikeforce.

Predicted lineup

Press Conference Update

Joe Gomez (knee) should be back in training on Friday but the visit of Arsenal is likely to come too soon for Jordan Henderson (thigh). Joel Matip will not return before the break… Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is the only other player missing after Xherdan Shaqiri made his first appearance of the season at Lincoln on Thursday.

Pending Evaluation

None

Ruled Out

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (Knee) – Likely to be after the October international break.
Joel Matip (Muscle) – Won’t be back until after the international break.
Jordan Henderson (Thigh) – Only a minor issue. The skipper is hoping to return in GW4.

Banned

None

Return to Competition

Joe Gomez (Knee) – Scheduled to rejoin the group on Friday.

Manchester City

Pep is managing quite an extensive injury list – only Aymeric Laporte is close to returning after joining the group in training last Friday – and with his hands tied, there aren’t too many options at his disposal. Liam Delap, Thomas Doyle, Zack Steffen and Adrian Bernabe were all named in the squad at Molineux alongside new signing Ferran Torres, Riyad Mahrez and Nicolas Otamendi. Guardiola has already indicated that he will look to his U23 players against Bournemouth (Carabao Cup) in an effort to keep his squad fresh.

Predicted lineup

Press Conference Update

Pep is not expecting any returners even though Aymeric Laporte has been training for over a week: “I don’t think so. [Friday] will be more clear, but I don’t think so. We have 13 players; before the game, we’ll see the players more fit and ready.” City eased past Bournemouth in the cup – making eight changes – but Kyle Walker and Phil Foden played 90-minutes which was not ideal. Bernardo Silva and Zinchenko missed the win at Wolves due to muscle problems, while Joao Cancelo was absent with a foot injury. All three may not be back until mid-October. Eric Garcia wore a protective head guard on Thursday due to a deep laceration with required 16 stitches. Pep said that Kevin De Bruyne was feeling “good” following a worrying clash late on.

**Breaking** Gabriel Jesus picked up an injury during the opener at Molineux leaving City without a recognised striker. Sterling could be utilised as a False 9 with 17-year-old Liam Delap providing back-up from the bench.

Pending Evaluation

Aymeric Laporte (COVID-19) – Positive test. Back on the training pitches but missed key sessions.

Ruled Out

Sergio Aguero (Knee) – Slight setback. Guardiola reveals it could be another two months.
Bernardo Silva (Thigh) – Injured playing for Portugal in the Nations League. Back after the international break.
Ilkay Gundogan (COVID-19) – Positive test. Self-isolating 10-14 days.
Joao Cancelo (Foot) – Training ground injury. Back after the break.
Oleksandr Zinchenko (Muscle) – Unspecified but Pep believes he won’t be back before GW5.
Gabriel Jesus (Unspecified) – Posted a social media update confirming he would be “back soon” while Brazil reveals he has been withdrawn from the upcoming internationals.

Banned

None

Return to Competition

None

Manchester United

Aaron Wan-Bissaka was involved at Luton on Tuesday, and the full-back, along with the likes of Nemanja Matic and Fred will be better placed following 90-minutes of football. Bruno, Marcus Rashford and Mason Greenwood were also afforded some game time as the United squad edge their way back to full fitness. The latter should be a position to start, although Greenwood owners hope that Solskjaer is not planning to go with Daniel James – an unused sub – once again.

Predicted lineup

Press Conference Update

Fred and Nemanja Matic played in the Carabao Cup increasing competition in midfield, and after losing to Palace last weekend, Scott McTominay’s place comes under threat. Solsjkaer also hinted that Bailly could be paired alongside Harry Maguire putting Victor Lindelof’s position at risk. “Eric is fit, which is a big plus and looking forward to seeing him play more games.” Alex Tuanzebe is nearing a comeback: “He’s getting closer to training with the team. He’s on the grass, and after the international break, he should be fine to join us,” Ole confirmed. “He’s really raring to go again.” Phil Jones is the only other injury absentee while the likes of Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Mason Greenwood are improving: “They’re getting better and fitter and sharper. We will get better and better and fitter and fitter. But we can’t wait and say ‘well, we’ll get fit in three weeks time’. We [them] straight away.”

Pending Evaluation

None

Ruled Out

Axel Tuanzebe (Foot) – Recovering from surgery. Hopeful of rejoining the group in training before the end of September.
Phil Jones (Knee) – Training individually and won’t be considered just yet.
Sergi Romero (Unavailable) – Given additional time-off.

Banned

None

Return to Competition

No further reported issues.

Newcastle United

Allan Saint-Maximin has endured a tough start to the season picking up knocks in all three games. His latest, an ankle injury, does not appear to be too severe and the pacey winger has a chance although Steve Bruce may err on the side of caution if Ryan Fraser can come through the encounter at Morecambe unscathed. United imploded against Brighton, and after a decent start, the manager has some big decisions to make. Miguel Almiron looks sharp, and the South American is putting pressure on Andy Carroll who hasn’t scored a competitive goal for Newcastle in almost 10-years. Further tests have cleared Jamal Lewis of serious injury, but his eye is completely closed calling into question his availability at Tottenham.

Predicted lineup

Press Conference Update

Steve Bruce feels Miguel Almiron has been a little “unlucky” after being dropped for the first two Premier League games and hints that the South American could be in line for a recall. “He can feel unlucky [and] in hindsight maybe I should have brought him back for Brighton.” A decision on Jamal Lewis and Allan Saint-Maximin, eye and ankle injuries respectively, will be made closer to kick-off. “It’s too early to make a call but they are a doubt.” Ryan Fraser was named on the bench at Morecambe midweek, possibly with one eye on a start this weekend. “We purposely left him out. I think we need to be careful. He’s about pace and being explosive. The minutes he has under his belt will have helped him.” Ciaran Clark (thigh) returns to the treatment room.

Pending Evaluation

Allan Saint-Maximin (Ankle) – Steve Bruce will make a judgement call closer to kick-off.
Jamal Lewis (Facial) – Rated as a major doubt due to an “awful” eye injury.
Ciaran Clark (Thigh) – Expected to miss out after suffering a setback in the cup.

Ruled Out

Fabian Schar (Shoulder) – Game week four is looking like a realistic timeline for the centre-back.
Paul Dummett (Hamstring) – Setback. Hopeful it is not long-term.
Martin Dúbravka (Knee) – Will miss a minimum of two months. Could be back after the break.
Dwight Gayle (Knee) – Surgery will keep him out for 3-4 months.
Matty Longstaff (Thigh) – Recurrence of an ongoing muscle issue which is becoming a concern.

Banned

None

Return to Competition

No further reported issues.

Sheffield United

Chris Wilder was not happy following the dismissal of John Egan who will sit this one out; his place in the back three could go to Jack Robinson who featured prominently during Project Restart. Early season indications point towards heavy rotation to the frontline, with Oli McBurnie, David McGoldrick, Billy Sharp and now Oli Burke all vying for a starting berth. Oliver Norwood was a surprise omission on Monday, and the midfielder faces tough competition from Sander Berge, John Lundstram and John Fleck.

Predicted lineup

Press Conference Update

John Egan serves a one-match ban while Lys Mousset remains out following surgery on his toe. “Everyone else is available,” Chris Wilder told reporters on Friday. Phil Jagielka comes into the picture, and the Blades boss may also consider a change of shape after Ampadu impressed following his introduction at Villa. “Ethan is going to play a big part in our season. There are some decisions to be made.”

Pending Evaluation

None

Ruled Out

Simon Moore (Finger) – Recovering from surgery. No timeline.
Lys Mousset (Toe) – Minor operation after suffering a “rare” ligament injury under his toe.

Banned

John Egan – Will serve a one-match ban following his dismissal vs Aston Villa.

Return to Competition

No further reported problems.

Southampton

Ralph Hassenhuttl will be disappointed with the Saints’ start having seen his side slump to three defeats on the spin. Southampton have tweaked their defensive line – playing much higher up the pitch – and after conceding five to Tottenham, they could revert to the formula which saw them fair so well after last seasons’ restart. Mohamed Salisu is nearing full fitness, but it may be a little much to expect the Ghanian to come straight into the XI. Vestergaard, however, he is an option while Che Adams will be looking over his shoulder with Shane Long and Michael Obafemi ready and waiting. Stuart Armstrong has benefitted from another week of training under his belt.

Predicted lineup

Press Conference Update

Nathan Redmond remains the only confirmed absentee as he continues his recovery from an ankle ligament injury. “We will have to have a look at him next week to see if it is possible for him to work with the team,” Ralph Hasenhuttl revealed. “We won’t take any risks there because we have the international break and that gives us [another] two weeks.” The Saints did pick up a couple of knocks against Tottenham, but none were serious, and everyone else is back on the training pitches. “We had a few good sessions, and we will take this squad into the game against Burnley.” Mohamed Salisu is building fitness following his arrival from La Liga side Real Valladolid.

Pending Evaluation

Mohamed Salisu (Fitness) – Conditioning programme with the Saints’ sports science team. Assessed GW-to-GW.

Ruled Out

Nathan Redmond (Ankle) – Forced off after 70-minutes in the Carabao Cup. Could be after the international break – assessed again next week.

Banned

None

Return to Competition

No further reported problems.

Tottenham Hotspur

Dele Alli will travel to Macedonia (UEL) on Thursday after missing the win at Southampton. Jose Mourinho had stated that the England international would play at Orient (Carabao Cup) before the game was called off due to several members of the O’s squad testing positive for COVID-19. I don’t see a great deal of change this weekend after a comprehensive win at St Mary’s – Tanguy Ndombele was rewarded with a start, but he isn’t ready for 90 minutes, and Moussa Sissoko is another option. Toby Alderweireld will challenge Davinson Sanchez, but once again, the team news midweek will help in determining how they will line-up against Newcastle. Sergio Reguilon should make the squad, but Gareth Bale looks to be side-lined until after the break (GW5).

Predicted lineup

Press Conference Update

Mourinho confirms Tanguy Ndombele will be checked after the Europa League win in Macedonia: “Can he play Sunday? I’m not sure,” Jose said. “It’s the first time he played 90 minutes, we have to see how he reacts and recovers from it.” New signing Sergio Reguilon trained on Friday, but after a recent ankle injury, the Spaniard needs to build fitness. “Not injured any more [but] ready to train with the team.” Gareth Bale will take a little bit longer and he should be okay after the international break. Japhet Tanganga will return in a “few weeks.”

Pending Evaluation

Sergio Regulion (Fitness) – New signing needs to be assessed following an injury earlier this month playing for Spain.
Tanguy Ndombele (Fitness) – Completed 90-minutes for the first time this year. Mourinho needs to check that he can recover in time.

Ruled Out

Japhet Tanganga (Thigh) – May not be ready before the international break.
Gareth Bale (Knee) – Likely to be after the international break.

Banned

None

Return to Competition

No further reported issues.

West Bromwich Albion

Slaven Bilic kept the same XI at Goodison Park last weekend, but Kieran Gibbs’ moment of madness just before half-time means that the Baggies will be forced into at least one change. West Brom became the latest Premier League scalp of Brentford, but there were plenty of positives with Chelsea loanee Conor Gallagher shining on his debut. Branislav Ivanovic played an hour, but Saturday may come too soon as he needs to build fitness.

Predicted lineup

Press Conference Update

Branislav Ivanovic played an hour on Tuesday, and Slaven Bilic did not rule out the possibility of the veteran defender playing some part. “We’re going to see. He came out of [the Carabao Cup] clean, with no issues. We’ll see. We have time to prepare him and the squad. Why not?” Hal Robson-Kanu (muscle) and Kamil Grosicki (back) will be assessed, but Ahmed Hegazi (hamstring) is not progressing as hoped and Saturday could come too soon. Kieran Gibbs is suspended and Chelsea youngster Conor Gallagher is ineligible under the terms of his loan agreement.

Pending Evaluation

Kamil Grosiki (Back) – Missed the Carabao Cup loss to Brentford due to back and muscle problems.
Hal Robson-Kanu (Muscle) – Replaced in the Carabao Cup due to tightness.
Branislav Ivanovic (Fitness) – Made his debut in the Carabao Cup and Bilic will make a late call on his involvement.

Ruled Out

Kenneth Zohore (Calf) – Missed the Baggies’ final game of pre-season and Slaven Bilic confirms he is not training with the squad.
Ahmed Hegazi (Hamstring) – Suffered a setback in training. Tests continue but Bilic remains “hopeful” that the injury is not too serious.
Conor Gallagher (Ineligible) – Unable to face his parent club.

Banned

Kieran Gibbs – Second game of a three-match after he was sent-off at Goodison Park.

Return to Competition

No further reported issues.

West Ham United

Issa Diop tested positive for COVID-19 on Tuesday, and the defender will self-isolate for the next 10-14 days; his place in the side could go to Fabian Balbuena who played 90-minutes against Hull. Sebastien Haller scored another two in the Carabao Cup, but after appearing to tweak his hamstring late on, he may not make the matchday squad. Mark Noble should return as the Hammers look to register their first points of the new campaign.

Predicted lineup

Press Conference Update

Alan Irvine spoke in the absence of David Moyes on Friday: “Everyone is training, which is great. Obviously, we’ve lost a couple of players with the Covid-19 situation so we wouldn’t want to lose any more to injury, so we’re pleased we haven’t.” Mark Noble returns after missing the last two games: “It’s always great to have him back. He’s fantastic around the place. His toe has been giving him pain for a while, but not any more so he’s got a smile on his face at the moment. It’s great to have him back training.”

Pending Evaluation

None

Ruled Out

Issa Diop (COVID-19) – Positive test. 10-14 days in self-isolation in accordance with Premier League and government protocol.
Josh Cullen (COVID-19) – Positive test. 10-14 days in self-isolation in accordance with Premier League and government protocol.

Banned

None

Return to Competition

Mark Noble (Toe) – Trained as normal this weekend. Alan Irvine confirms the skipper is available.

Wolverhampton Wanderers

Ruben Vinagre is poised to replace Marcal who lasted barely five-minutes against Man City; the medical team weren’t taking any chances with the Brazilian who said he “felt something” during the opening exchanges. Wolves travel to West Ham on Sunday and Nuno will hopefully give us some indication whether Portuguese right-back Nelson Semedo, who signed from Barcelona in a £37m deal, will be included in the squad. Neves for Dendoncker was the only switch from week one, and the Belgium international will be pushing for a recall.

Predicted lineup

Press Conference Update

Nuno reveals he has “some issues” heading into this weekends’ game at West Ham and decisions on the team will be made after the final session. Fernando Marcal (calf) is not expected to recover which could mean Ruben Vinagre is handed a recall: “Let’s see, but I’m not very confident that he can be available. It all depends on how the player gets better. Now, he’s not training, he’s in treatment.” New signing Nelsen Semedo is hoping to force his way into contention: “We’re bringing a high-quality, talented player who played at the highest level of European football and for his national team. He arrived two or three days ago, he’s integrated well, he’s working and let’s see how he progresses.” Jonny will not play again this year.

Pending Evaluation

Fernando Marcal (Calf) – In the treatment room and not training with the train. Major doubt.

Ruled Out

Jonny (ACL rupture) – Expected to miss the remainder of 2020.

Banned

None

Return to Competition

No further reported problems.

* RTT – Return to Train ** RTP – Return to Play *** GW – Game Week

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