Team News: Predicted Lineups | FPL Gameweek 9

FPL GW9 predicted lineups and team news from all Premier League clubs from injury guru Ben Dinnery ahead of the upcoming Gameweek. They will be regularly updated throughout and following the press conferences.

Check out our Ultimate Guide to FPL Gameweek 9 for all the key information, stats and tips you need going into the weekend’s action.

Arsenal

Mikel Arteta will be looking for a reaction from his side who were unable to back-up their victory at Old Trafford following a hugely disappointing defeat to Aston Villa. The Gunners boss took full responsibility for his side’s poor showing, and with up to six players at risk of missing out through injury and/or illness, then we could see changes for the trip to Elland Road.

Predicted lineup

Press Conference Update

Mohamed Elneny and Sead Kolasinac (COVID-19) have both tested positive while on international duty with Egypt and Bosnia, respectively. They are following protocol ahead of a return to training and will be unavailable this weekend. Thomas Partey (thigh strain) will also miss the trip to Elland Road. “He picked up an injury very early in the game [against Aston Villa], he tried to carry on, and he wanted to play the second half, and we knew it was a significant injury. Hopefully, we can get him back soon, but it is an area where we have to be careful and a bit protective with the player.” Mikel Arteta plays down a training ground incident between Dani Ceballos and David Luiz… “Nothing. Training is very competitive, and issues happen a lot of the time, but those things get resolved immediately within the team. There’s not much to say.” The Arsenal boss remained coy on Willian after the Brazilian was spotted in Dubai. “Whatever happens internally with any issues or things that we don’t expect, as always we will try to resolve them internally. That’s been dealt with and explained, and we move on.” Pablo Mari is looking “really good” in training. “Obviously, he had a difficult surgery. He had a screw, and sometimes it can react in an unexpected way, and it was causing some inflammation and irritation in the joint. We had to take that out which was a little bit of a setback.”

Pending Evaluation 

• Reiss Nelson (knee) – Withdraw from the England U21 squad, but the problem is believed to be minor.

Ruled Out

• Pablo Mari (ankle) – Aiming to rejoin the group before the end of the month following a minor setback.
• Gabriel Martinelli (knee surgery) – Targeting a return-to-play in early 2021.
• Calum Chambers (ACL rupture) – Building fitness with the Under-23s.
• Mo Elneny (COVID-19) – Tested positive while away on international duty. Self-isolating.
• Sead Kolasinac (COVID-19) – Tested positive while away on international duty. Self-isolating.
• Thomas Partey (thigh) – Suffered a “significant” injury against Villa. “Hopefully, we can get him back soon.”

Banned

None

Return to Competition

—

 

Aston Villa

Following back-to-back losses, Dean Smith’s side bounced back in style with a comprehensive win at The Emirates. There was one enforced change last time out, but barring any last-minute setbacks, the Villains will be looking to name an unchanged XI.

Predicted lineup

Press Conference Update

Tom Heaton has played “some minutes” for the Under-23s, plus an in-house game last week but he is not ready for a Premier League return. The goalkeeper continues to train with the first team every day. Wesley has started doing some ball work and continues to build strength. “We’re trying to get him up to speed so that he can join in,” Dean Smith said with a view to having the striker back in the new year. “Bjorn Engels has a thigh injury and has not trained with the squad yet. Neither has Fred Guilbert who is struggling with a side strain.” Kortney Hause (groin) should start working with the group on Thursday although his involvement would be from the bench. “I haven’t seen my internationals yet, so I won’t know until they get here.” No mention of Bertrand Traore who missed GW8 due to a hamstring issue, but at the time, Smith was confident the forward would “be back” after the break.

Pending Evaluation

• Kortney Hause (groin) – Potential comeback in GW9 following a return to training on Thursday.
• Bertrand Traore (thigh) – No mention but Smith said the forward would “definitely” be back after the break.

Ruled Out 

• Tom Heaton (ACL knee) – Building fitness with the Under-23s following a long-term knee injury. Training with the first-team.
• Wesley (ACL knee) – Building strength and introducing some ball work. A potential return in early 2021.
• Bjorn Engels (thigh) – Ruled out with no definitive timeframe.
• Frederic Guilbert (side strain) – Sidelined with no definitive timeframe.

Banned

None

Return to Competition

—

 

Brighton and Hove Albion

The Seagulls should be in much better shape for the trip to Villa Park with Lewis Dunk, Solly March and Leandro Trossard all well-placed to return to the side. Brighton played out a 0-0 draw at the Amex Stadium (GW8), and with only one win on the board this term, Graham Potter will be hoping his side can spring a surprise on a ground they’ve never won on.

Predicted lineup

Press Conference Update

Aaron Connolly (hamstring) and Solly March (ankle) are back in training. “There have been no setbacks with them,” and Graham Potter expects both players to be in contention. There are concerns over Davy Propper who was complaining of stomach illness on Thursday, and a late decision will be made on Leandro Trossard, although the Seagulls boss believes “the game may come too soon”. Alexis Mac Allister tested positive for COVID-19 and must self-isolate, but there was better news regarding Lewis Dunk, who is back after serving a three-match ban. “Lewis is our captain, a fantastic player, we’ve missed him. There’s no doubt he goes into the team.”

Pending Evaluation

• Christian Walton (ankle) –  Back in full training. Building fitness.
• Aaron Connolly (hamstring) – Trained as normal without any setbacks.
• Solly March (ankle) – Trained as normal without any setbacks.
• Leandro Trossard (groin) – A late decision but Graham Potter believes the game may come too soon.
• Davy Propper (illness) – Complaining of stomach cramps on Thursday. Late test.

Ruled Out 

• Jose Izquierdo (Knee surgery) – Continues to build fitness with the Under-23s.
• Florin Andone (Knee) – Ruled out for the remainder of the year.
• Alex Mac Allister (COVID-19) – Tested positive and must now self-isolate in accordance with government guidelines.

Banned

—

Return to Competition

• Lewis Dunk – Returns after serving a three-match ban.

 

Burnley

The Clarets measly tally of two-points after seven games is their joint-lowest in their history although Sean Dyche will be looking to turn things around with close to a full squad at his disposal. However, having failed to score in their four previous fixtures, the top-flights lowest scorers (3) need to find their form in front of goal quickly.

Predicted lineup

Press Conference Update

Erik Pieters has returned to training “which is good”, but Charlie Taylor is flagged as a doubt. “He has a minor situation on a hamstring, which we’re monitoring. We have to be careful with him. We just had to pull him out for a few days with a bit of tightness.” Phil Bardsley is fit and well although Sean Dyche will be left to wait on the availability of Johann Berg Gudmundsson and Robbie Brady who were both injured while representing their countries. “Johann, his groin was a bit sore, so hopefully that will settle down. We’re waiting on Robbie; hopefully, it’s not too serious – he came off with a tight groin on Wednesday night.” Dale Stephens is still not training with the team and is expected to miss out.

Pending Evaluation

• Erik Pieters (calf) – Making good progress and will be close.
• Gudmundsson (groin) – A “bit sore” but Dyche is hoping the problem will settle down.
• Robbie Brady (groin) – Complained of tightness on Wednesday night. Tests continue but “we’re hoping that’s nothing”.
• Charlie Taylor (hamstring) – A “minor situation” (tightness) which resulted in the right-back missing a few sessions.

Ruled Out 

• Jack Cork (ankle) – Training on the grass but still some time away from joining the group.
• Dale Stephens (hamstring) – Not yet training with the team and will miss GW9.

Banned

None

Return to Competition

• Phil Bardsley (knock) – Suffered a setback following his recovery from COVID-19 but the veteran full-back is training normally.

 

Chelsea

A trip to Tyneside beckons for Frank Lampard and despite excellent form heading into this fixture – 11 matches without defeat – player absence and late international returners could result in a heavily rotated side for the early kick-off.

Predicted lineup

Press Conference Update

Frank Lampard reports that Christian Pulisic will not be fit for the trip to Newcastle. The US international returned to Cobham during the break for treatment and is around 10-14 days away from a return. Kai Havertz has been cleared to resume normal duties, but having worked individually for the past 10 days, the German may not be considered for Saturday. Thiago Silva arrived back in the UK late, and the Brazilian is likely to be rested ahead of the Champions League. Lampard isn’t 100 per cent sure on the availability of his players who have been away, as some had not been tested at the time of Thursdays’ press conference. “We’re still waiting on some results from the tests that we now have to do. Unfortunately, some of our players are arriving back this afternoon, some played last night, so with the 12.30 KO on Saturday, there’s clearly a lot of challenges for us.” Mason Mount is one of those; however, the Chelsea boss is not concerned about the young midfielders load, either for club or country, as he believes he can cope with it all. Ben Chilwell is another. “I haven’t seen him yet; he stayed with England. He was improving; hence he was on the bench. So I’m positive that he’ll be OK, but I’ll have to see him later on today.”

Pending Evaluation

• Ben Chilwell (back) – Stayed with England despite a spasm which forced him off in Belgium. Assessed on his return to Cobham.
• Thiago Silva (fatigue) – Missed out after the first international break and Frank Lampard may look to rest the defender once again.

Ruled Out

• Kai Havertz (COVID-19) – Free to train, but lacking fitness and may miss out.
• Christian Pulisic (hamstring) – Ruled out of the recent internationals and believed to be around 10-14 days away from a return.

Banned

None

Return to Competition

• Billy Gilmour (knee surgery) – Available again after making his return for Scotland under-21s.

 

Crystal Palace

Following a disrupted start to his season, Luka Milivojevic was just getting back into the swing of things when coronavirus struck in Serbia and the skipper must now self-isolate. Fortunately, for Roy Hodgson, he is well stacked in midfield, and his absence could see James McArthur return to the matchday squad for the first time since recovering from injury.

Predicted lineup

Press Conference Update

Roy Hodgson reveals Tyrick Mitchell and James Tomkins both trained on Thursday, and they are fit. “Martin Kelly also joined [the group] following an injury. We’re now waiting to see how our internationals come back – from Belgium [Christian Benteke and Michy Batshuayi] and Holland [Patrick van Aanholt] – but there are no injuries reported. I’m hoping they’ll get their tests today [Thursday] and we’ll see them in training on Saturday.” The Eagles boss wouldn’t be drawn on this weekends’ starting left-back. “They’re not dilemmas when you’ve got a good choice. They’re both very good players.” Milivojevic is ruled out. “As far as Luka’s concerned, we’ve had no chance to see him because he’s isolating in Serbia. But we’re hoping the test he’s going to have this weekend will prove negative and I’m hoping he’ll be back and working again with us next week.”

Pending Evaluation

• Eberechi Eze (muscle) – Released from England under-21 duty but Aidy Boothroyd confirmed his withdrawal was more of a precaution.
• James Tomkins (thigh) – Injury-free and back on the training pitches but lacks fitness.
• Tyrick Mitchell (knock) – Training normally and will compete with van Aanholt for the left-back spot.
• Joel Ward (groin) – Injury-free and back on the training pitches but lacks fitness.

Ruled Out

• Nathan Ferguson (Knee) – Individualised programme. No timescale at the moment.
• Connor Wickham (Muscle) – Suffered a significant setback. Out long-term.
• Wayne Hennessey (Undisclosed) – Injured playing for Wales. Out until January 2021 at the earliest.
• Luka Milivojevic (COVID-19) – Tested positive while in his homeland. Self-isolating.

Banned

—

Return to Competition

—

 

Everton

The return of Richarlison cannot be understated. The Brazilian served a three-match ban following his dismissal in the Merseyside derby which coincided with Everton losing three on the bounce and relinquishing top spot. He should be fine despite Edinson Cavani’s red card tackle in Uruguay which Richarlison claimed it “could have broken his ankle”. Another Seamus Coleman setback leaves the Irishman hamstrung with his fourth muscular problem since late-September.

Predicted lineup

Press Conference Update

Seamus Coleman is out having suffered a recurrence of a hamstring injury while training with Ireland. The Toffees are also missing midfielder Jean-Philippe Gbamin, although he is in the last part of his recovery from an Achilles injury and he “will be ready in two or three weeks to train and play.” Everyone else involved in the internationals came back without any injuries or COVID related problems. “They trained on Friday. They are quite fit, a little bit tired from the travel, but we have time to recover until Sunday.” Richarlison returns after serving his ban – Everton lost three games in his absence – and Ancelotti can consider Allan and Fabian Delph after the pair were passed fit.

Pending Evaluation 

• Allan (muscle) – Missed Brazil’s win over Uruguay due to a “clinical” injury but cleared after assessment at Finch Farm.
• Fabian Delph (unspecified) – Back in the managers’ thoughts.

Ruled Out

• Jean-Philippe Gbamin (Achilles) – Final phase of his recovery. Around 2-3 weeks away from a return.
• Seamus Coleman (hamstring) – Suffered a setback while training with Ireland.

Banned

—

Return to Competition

• Richarlison (ankle) – Completed his three-match ban.

 

Fulham

Scott Parker couldn’t hide his anger when Ademola Lookman fluffed his lines deep into time added on with a poorly taken Panenka (GW8) and whether the on-loan winger will be allowed to make amends remains to be seen. The Lilywhites left the London Stadium with nothing, but their performances of late suggest they are finally adjusting to life in the top tier.

Predicted lineup

Press Conference Update

Scott Parker says he will have a clearer picture of his squad on Saturday after the final training session. “Everyone has returned from international duty, but some only arrived back this morning (Friday). Everyone is healthy.” Mario Lemina is training, and the Lilywhites boss will make a late call on the midfielder. “We’re unsure if he’s ready to go for Sunday.” All COVID tests have all come back negative. “So, no issues there.”

Pending Evaluation

• Mario Lemina (knock) – Trained during the break and Scott Parker will make a late call.
• Kenny Tate (calf) – “Getting there” after the international break. Outside chance.

Ruled Out

• Terence Kongolo (foot) – Hasn’t played since breaking a bone in his foot in February.

Banned

• Aboubakar Kamara – Not eligible to play again until late-November following his dismissal against Crystal Palace.

Return to Competition

—

 

Leeds United

The break came at a good time for Leeds who were on the receiving end of back-to-back losses. The potential return of Kalvin Phillips, who could play following a shoulder injection, would be a massive boost for Marcelo Bielsa.

Predicted lineup

Press Conference Update

Kalvin Phillips is in contention for Leeds along with Rodrigo following his recovery from coronavirus. Diego Llorente is taking longer than initially anticipated after suffering a setback, and the Spaniard is working his back to full fitness. Sunday comes too soon for Jamie Shackleton, and Pablo Hernandez picked up a muscle injury during the break which keeps him out. “Nothing serious, but he won’t be able to play this weekend.”

Pending Evaluation

• Kalvin Phillips (shoulder) – Had an injection ahead of the game and will be available.
• Rodrigo (COVID-19) – Back in full training following a period of self-isolation.

Ruled Out

• Adam Forshaw (hip) – Marcelo Bielsa reveals the midfielder will look to build fitness and confidence with the U23s before rejoining the first team.
• Gaetano Berardi (ACL knee) – Long-term. Hopeful of a return in early 2021.
• Diego Llorente (groin) – Suffered a slight setback which has delayed his return.
• Jamie Shackleton (muscle) – Still hasn’t recovered from the muscle injury picked up in training.
• Pablo Hernandez (muscle) – Suffered a “minor” muscle injury during the break.

Banned

None

Return to Competition

—

 

Leicester City

The Foxes head to Anfield in great form and with players returning from injury, Brendan Rodgers will have some critical selection decisions to make ahead of this one.

Predicted lineup

Press Conference Update

Ricardo Pereira is training with the group, and the full-back will “most probably” play in a reserve game next week to build fitness. “He’s progressing really well.” Wilfried Ndidi is back out on training pitches, but Brendan Rodgers has urged caution following groin surgery. “He still has a number of weeks to go.” Söyüncü is likely to return next month, but Timothy Castagne and Wesley Fofana will be fine. “So, we’re slowly starting to get our players back.”

Pending Evaluation

• Timothy Castagne (hamstring) – Rodgers revealed the full-back would return after the break.
• Wesley Fofana (knee) – Fine despite missing out for France under-21s.

Ruled Out

• Wilfried Ndidi (Groin) – Back on the training pitches although it could be several weeks before he is back in contention.
• Daniel Amartey (Hamstring) – No definitive timeframe currently, but it will be a “number of weeks”.
• Caglar Soyuncu (Hamstring) – Not as bad as initially feared and may return in December.
• Ricardo Pereira (ACL rupture) – Training with the squad but will play minutes for the reserves before returning to the first-team.

Banned

None

Return to Competition

—

 

Liverpool

There’s been no let-up for Jurgen Klopp during the break with Liverpool suffering more injuries to their defensive backline. Joe Gomez will be lucky to play again this season, but fortunately, it looks like Andy Robertson and Rhys Williams will be available after suffering scares during the internationals.

Predicted lineup

Press Conference Update

Jurgen Klopp confirms Mo Salah is flying back on Friday. “I’ve been in close contact with him. When you have a negative test, the process starts. He has had no symptoms.” Joe Gomez’ knee surgery has been a success. “A tough one [but] he’s already recovering and starting his rehabilitation. He’s with his family, so he’s in the best possible place.” Jordan Henderson (hamstring) will not recover in time for Sundays’ game while Trent Alexander-Arnold (calf) is also absent. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is progressing, but he is unlikely to be considered just yet. A decision on Fabinho (hamstring) and Thiago Alcantara (knee) will be made nearer to kick-off. “They are closer. We will see if [they are] close enough for the weekend.” Neco Williams (foot) and Rhys Williams (hip) are believed to be carrying minor issues, and both could be called into the matchday squad with several confirmed absences.

Pending Evaluation

• Rhys Williams (hip) – Returned from England under-21 duty with a minor complaint.
• Neco Williams (foot) – Minor issue and can be called upon if required.
• Thiago Alcantara (knee) – “Getting closer” but Klopp is playing his cards very close to his chest. Late decision.
• Fabinho (hamstring) – “Getting closer” but Klopp is playing his cards very close to his chest. Late decision.

Ruled Out

• Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (Knee) – Progressing with no definitive timeline. Could be early December.
• Virgil van Dijk (ACL knee) – Likely to be season over for the Dutchman who will undergo surgery to repair ligament damage.
• Alexander-Arnold (calf) – Initial timeline was around 4 weeks, meaning the full-back would not be back until December.
• Joe Gomez (knee surgery) – Likely to be season over after suffering a non-contact patellar tendon rupture during England training.
• Mohamed Salah (COVID-19) – Will “probably” arrive back in the UK on Friday following a negative swab.
• Jordan Henderson (hamstring) – Replaced (vs Belgium) last weekend because of a tight hamstring and returned to the club for treatment. Ruled out.

Banned

None

Return to Competition

—

 

Manchester City

City head into a decent fixture period which coincides nicely with an easing of injury burden with players returning to fitness. Pep will be looking to capitalise on Liverpool’s recent misfortune and lay down a marker in this seasons’ title race.

Predicted lineup

Press Conference Update

Nathan Ake is out after suffering a hamstring injury five minutes into the Netherlands’ friendly with Spain 10 days ago. Meanwhile, Fernandinho, who had recovered from the muscular problem which kept him out for last month, is sidelined due to illness. “He is not fit. He has a bit of gastroenteritis, something in his stomach,” confirmed Pep. Sergio Aguero and Benjamin Mendy have been training this week, and Raheem Sterling joined the team for the first time on Friday.

Pending Evaluation

• Sergio Aguero (hamstring) – Back on the training pitches and should be there/thereabouts.
• Benjamin Mendy (undisclosed) – Returned to the training pitches during the international break and won’t be too far from a comeback.
• Raheem Sterling (calf) – Injury kept the speedy winger out of the England qualifiers, but he did join the group on Friday.

Ruled Out

• Nathan Ake (hamstring) – The City defender suffered a setback during the opening exchanges of Netherlands friendly vs Spain.
• Fernandinho (illness) – “He is not fit. He has a bit of gastroenteritis, something in his stomach.”

Banned

None

Return to Competition

—

 

Manchester United

Alex Telles was cleared to join his Brazilian teammates after initially testing positive ahead of the game with Uruguay. The left-back was an unused substitute which will be a relief to Solskjaer with Luke Shaw out until next month. However, the United boss is managing problems elsewhere, and decisions involving key players may be left until closer to kick-off.

Predicted lineup

Press Conference Update

Luke Shaw, Jesse Lingard and Phil Jones did not take part in training on Friday and Ole confirms they will miss Saturdays’ game. Regarding the remainder of the squad. “Most of them have joined in, so it’s looking good” with Anthony Martial (back) and Harry Maguire (foot) likely to recover. Marcus Rashford took part in his first session and will be hoping for no reaction. Eric Bailly and Marcos Rojo were also with the squad, but it’s far too soon for either player. Doubts remain over Victor Lindelof who will be checked on Saturday, but his back problem, which forced him off for Sweden, “is not [looking] great”. Mason Greenwood could miss out again. “Everyone’s allowed to not be well, and if you’re not well, you can’t train. He’s been away [for] for 8-9 days. We’re just building him up again, and I have no doubts about him. He has a very good head on him, and the talent is there for all to see.”

Pending Evaluation

• Victor Lindelof (back) – Ongoing back issue which forced the centre-back out of the recent Nations League qualifier in France. A major doubt.
• Mason Greenwood (illness) – Missed 8-9 days of training and is working is way back.
• Marcus Rashford (shoulder) – Took part in his first session on Friday. Available barring a reaction.
• Anthony Martial (back) – Involved in training on Friday.
• Harry Maguire (foot) – Expected to recover from a heavy knock.

Ruled Out

• Phil Jones (knee surgery) – Ruled out until December after Ole confirmed the defender went under the knife.
• Eric Bailly (unspecified) – Only rejoined the group on Friday and will need time to build fitness.
• Luke Shaw (hamstring) – An initial timeframe suggests he could be missing for around 6 weeks. Mid-December.
• Jesse Lingard (undisclosed) – Returned to the training pitches prior to the break, but appears to have suffered a setback.
• Marcos Rojo (unspecified) – Only rejoined the group on Friday and will need time to build fitness.

Banned

—

Return to Competition

• Alex Telles (COVID-19) – Cleared after initially testing positive ahead of Brazil’s game against Uruguay.

 

Newcastle United

If Callum Wilson fails to recover, then Steve Bruce may be forced into a change of formation which could see him abandon five at the back and go with a more orthodox 4-2-3-1. Despite being suspended for Paraguay, Miguel Almiron decided to remain with the national team, and his late return could result in a place on the bench. United need to tighten up defensively, having conceded in seven games straight.

Predicted lineup

Press Conference Update

Ryan Fraser will not recover in time for Saturday, but Callum Wilson has a chance. “If there’s any risk whatsoever, then he won’t play, but he has trained the last few days and was very comfortable yesterday. He wants to play,” Steven Bruce said. Chelsea “might” come too soon for Jonjo Shelvey and Matt Ritchie but both players have been with the group this week. “It’s great to see them back. And for Jonjo to recover so quickly from an operation is remarkable. Tomorrow might be a bit early for them, but they’ll certainly be involved for Crystal Palace next week.” Miguel Almiron didn’t arrive back until 11 pm on Thursday. “He had to be COVID tested, but everything seems to be OK in that respect, so we’ll see on him.” Bruce says Paul Dummett (hamstring) hasn’t had a setback as such, but the full-back is not quite right… “We just have to be a bit more patient. Paul is one of these players who desperately needed a pre-season and suffered without it.”

Pending Evaluation

• Callum Wilson (hamstring) – Trained for the last 2-3 days and very keen to be involved.
• Matt Ritchie (Shoulder) – Back on the training pitches, and while Saturday may come too soon. Bruce is confident of a return in GW10.
• Jonjo Shelvy (groin) – Back on the training pitches, and while Saturday may come too soon. Bruce is confident of a return in GW10.

Ruled Out

• Martin Dúbravka (Knee) – Setback. It could be late-November before the goalkeeper is back in contention.
• Dwight Gayle (Knee) – Surgery will keep him out for 3-4 months.
• Paul Dummett (hamstring) – Bruce insists the defender has not suffered a setback, but the player is “not quite right”, and United need to be patient.
• Ryan Fraser (hamstring) – Missed the defeat at Southampton and the subsequent internationals for Scotland. Will not recover for this one.

Banned

None

Return to Competition

—

 

Sheffield United

Only one-point returned so far for Chris Wilder’s side, and the Blades have equalled the record for the worst start to a Premier League campaign. However, performances have not been as bad as the league table suggests. John Lundstram refused to sign a contract extension and his involvement could be determined by the fitness of others.

Predicted lineup

Press Conference Update

Lys Mousset (toe) is back in full training, and the forward “might” be in contention. The return of John Fleck (back) provides Chris Wilder with a “huge boost”, and he will come into the managers’ thinking. Rhian Brewster was released from England U21 duty after picking up a knock, and John Egan sustained a head injury playing for the Republic of Ireland – Wilder will make a late call on both players. Sander Berge’s availability remains unclear after he was caught up in a COVID row between the National Team and the Norwegian government; the medical department will decide his involvement.

Pending Evaluation

• Rhian Brewster (unspecified) – Aidy Boothroyd confirmed his withdrawal from the England under-21 squad was more of a precaution.
• Enda Stevens (knee) – Played no part for Ireland after picking up an injury at Stamford Bridge. No mention from Wilder but should be okay.
• John Egan (head) – Concussion protocol meant he missed out for his country, but the defender should be okay for Sunday.
• Lys Mousset (Toe) – Back in full training and “might” return on Sunday.
• John Fleck (back) – Chris Wilder says it is a “huge bonus” to have the midfielder available again.
• Serge Berge (COVID-19) – Awaiting clearance after potentially coming into close contact with a teammate who tested positive.

Ruled Out

• Jack O’Connell (Knee) – Successfully undergone surgery and will not play again this season.

Banned

None

Return to Competition

• Ethan Ampadu – Available again after missing the Chelsea due to the terms of his loan.

 

Southampton

No Ings. No problem. The Saints brushed Newcastle aside last time out with Theo Walcott being tasked with partnering Che Adams in attack. That switch meant Moussa Djenepo was handed a recall ahead of Nathan Redmond and barring any problems during the break; Ralph Hasenhüttl could line-up with the same side again.

Predicted lineup

Press Conference Update

Ralph Hasenhuttl kicked Fridays’ press conference off with a quick update on Danny Ings. “He’s walking around quite good I think, but there’s still time to go. But, [he] looks good, there are no complications. It was a small surgery.” Everyone else is in training at the moment, which includes Ryan Bertrand and James Ward-Prowse who have been managing minor hamstring issues in recent weeks. Those arriving late from the internationals need to be checked. “Jan Bednarek played on Wednesday; I think he’s okay. Moussa (Djenepo), I haven’t seen so far, Stuart (Armstrong) I haven’t seen. Jannik Vestergaard, today (Friday) is his first day also. We have all the guys back today. It is an advantage that we play on Monday, so we have a few sessions to work on a few parts.”

Pending Evaluation

• Ryan Bertrand (hamstring) – Ralph Hassenhuttl confirms everyone is training as normal.
• Will Smallbone (thigh) – Ralph Hassenhuttl confirms everyone is training as normal.
• Mohamed Salisu (fitness) – Back in team sessions and in a “good way”.
• James Ward-Prowse (hamstring) – Ralph Hassenhuttl confirms everyone is training as normal.
• Theo Walcott (hand) – Ralph Hassenhuttl confirms everyone is training as normal.

Ruled Out

• Danny Ings (knee surgery) – Walking unaided but the striker still has some time to go. A potential return by mid-December.

Banned

None

Return to Competition

—

 

Tottenham Hotspur

The loss of Matt Doherty, just as he was settling into the Tottenham way, is a blow and Jose will likely turn to Serge Aurier to fill the void. Elsewhere, Gareth Bale will have benefitted from more minutes with Wales while Heung-Min Son managed to avoid the coronavirus scare that swept through the South Korean camp.

Predicted lineup

Press Conference Update

Jose Mourinho will assess his players on Friday afternoon – Spurs have a session scheduled for 3 pm. Harry Winks returned from England duty with a “little problem”, and Erik Lamela (Achilles) is on the last period of recovery. Matt Doherty (COVID-19) is self-isolating following a positive test, but Heung-Min Son has submitted two negative swabs since his return where coronavirus was sweeping through the South Korean camp. There are no further issues, although Japhet Tanganga is unlikely to make the squad. Steven Bergwijn is fine following his release from the Dutch national team due to “fitness” concerns. Mourinho hadn’t seen Davinson or Gedson at the time of his press conference.

Pending Evaluation

• Japhet Tanganga (thigh) – The young defender is back on the training pitches and close to a return.
• Steven Bergwijn (undisclosed) – Returned from international duty due to “fitness issues” but he has been cleared for Saturday.
• Tanguy Ndombele (foot) – Minor issue sustained last time out. Training as normal.
• Harry Winks (unspecified) – Returned from England duty with a “little problem” and faces a late test.

Ruled Out

• Matt Doherty( COVID-19) – Tested positive while away with Ireland. Self-isolating.
• Erik Lamela (Achilles) – Final phase of his recovery.

Banned

None

Return to Competition

—

 

West Bromwich Albion

The Baggies are one of only three top-flight teams who are yet to register a win, but a trip to Old Trafford could be just what they need after winning (0-1) on their last visit back in 2018. Slaven Bilic should have close to a full-strength squad after COVID-19 robbed him of Branislav Ivanovic and Matheus Pereira on the eve of the Tottenham game.

Predicted lineup

Press Conference Update

Branislav Ivanovic and Matheus Pereira have trained after missing the home defeat to Tottenham due to a positive COVID-19 test. Callum Robinson was also released from the Ireland squad after a positive swab, but Slaven Bilic is confident that all three players will be in contention. There have been a “few” other positive results, but the details have not been released due to issues around confidentiality. Robson-Kanu is stepping up his recovery following surgery on his arm. “Hal is back in training,” Bilic revealed. “For the first [time] last week, the players were still wary. He was the joker, the spare man. We were looking after him. We didn’t want to make big contacts or whatever, but he looks good.” Sam Field will hopefully rejoin the group “very soon” after missing the last five weeks with a knee injury.

Pending Evaluation

• Branislav Ivanovic (COVID-19) – Missed out in GW8 after testing positive. Back on the training pitches.
• Matheus Pereira (COVID-19) – Missed out in GW8 after testing positive. Back on the training pitches.
• Callum Robinson (COVID-19) – Tested positive while away with Ireland. A decision will be made closer to kick-off, but Bilic is confident.

Ruled Out

• Hal Robson-Kanu (arm) – The player himself admits he cannot rush back. Late-November at the earliest.
• Sam Field (knee) – Won’t be too far away after the November international break. Injury-free but not training with the squad.

Banned

—

Return to Competition

—

 

West Ham United

Angelo Ogbonna looks to winning his race to recover from a minor groin issue after he was forced off in week eight. Issa Diop remains on standby if he fails to heal. In attack, Michail Antonio won’t be too far away, but given the strikers’ previous hamstring problems, David Moyes will be keen to ensure he doesn’t take any unnecessary risks.

Predicted lineup

Press Conference Update

Michail Antonio has returned to the training pitches. “We’ve got a couple of days yet to see how he is. The truth, I couldn’t give you a complete answer, but he’s getting much closer that’s for sure,” David Moyes told reporters. “His form has been so good. He can run in behind or hold the ball up. His all-round play as a centre-forward’s improved brilliantly, so if we can get him back it’d be great, but at the moment we’re just not quite sure if he’s ready yet.” Angelo Ogbonna looks to be winning his race to be fit while Mark Noble has recovered from a rib injury. Andriy Yarmolenko is out after testing positive for coronavirus earlier in the week… Moyes adds that they are still waiting for some of the COVID-19 test results to come back for those players involved during the international break.

Pending Evaluation

• Mark Noble (rib) – Only just missed out in GW8 and the skipper will be in contention.
• Michail Antonio (hamstring) – Progressing well, but Moyes wouldn’t commit. “He’s getting much closer that’s for sure.”
• Angelo Ogbonna (groin) – Looks like the defender is winning his race to be fit for this one.

Ruled Out

• Andriy Yarmolenko (COVID-19) – Tested positive while representing his country. Self-isolating.

Banned

None

Return to Competition

—

 

Wolverhampton Wanderers

If Ait Nouri can recover, then the youngster looks well-placed to retain a starting berth although Nuno does have alternatives for the wing-back role. Brazilian Marcal is once again fit and Romain Saiss, who started the season well, can feel a little aggrieved having slipped down the pecking order. However, doubts over Conor Coady could open the door for the Moroccan. On the opposite flank, and despite breaking into the Spain squad, Adama Traore cannot seem to dislodge Pedro Neto who is enjoying an extended run in the side. Leandro Dendoncker returned for Belgium on Wednesday evening, and as long as there is no reaction to the knee and groin issues which kept him out of the England fixture, he will be fine. Otherwise, Joao Moutinho is lined up for his first Premier League start since October.

Predicted lineup

Press Conference Update

Wolves don’t face Southampton until Monday night which will allow Nuno to assess his players over the weekend. Saturday is the first time his squad will work together, and selection decisions will be made after the final session. There are “issues” which need to be checked. Conor Coady is expected to be available following a period of self-isolation while Ait Nouri should recover from the muscular issue that forced him out of the France under-21s.

Pending Evaluation

• Rayan Ait Nouri (muscular) – Released from international duty due to an unspecified problem but the youngster should recover.
• Conor Coady (self-isolating) – Identified by Track and Trace as a close contact of someone who tested positive for COVID-19. Missed the recent internationals, but could return.

Ruled Out

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

Banned

None

Return to Competition

—

* GW – Game Week

Check out our Ultimate Guide to FPL Gameweek 9 for all the key information, stats and tips you need going into the weekend’s action.

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