Stamford Bridge remains home to in excess of 40 players who have been involved in the first team. Axel Disasi is still on his way back from injury. The Frenchman will not have an easy task of making the squad as fellow central defenders Tosin Adarabioyo and Benoit Badiashile already occupy two spots on the bench.

It’s perhaps understandable Sterling’s camp released a statement suggesting they would seek clarity over the decision, with teammates such as Trevoh Chalobah told to train away from the first team. For example, the Blues will need to find new homes for Djordje Petrovic, likely on loan, and Kepa Arrizabalaga. Robert Sanchez and Filip Jorgensen earned places in the squad to face City, with Marcus Bettinelli and Lucas Bergstrom still in west London too.

The following players are affected:
1. Reece James [suspended]
2. Axel Disasi [recovering from injury]
3.

Trevoh Chalobah
4. Carney Chukwuemeka
5. Ben Chilwell
6.

Djordje Petrović
7. Marcus Bettinelli
8. Lucas Bergström
9.

Kepa Arrizabalaga
10. Cesare Casadei
11. Tyrique George
12.

Josh Acheampong
13. Deivid Washington
14. Omari Kellyman
15.

Ângelo Gabriel
16. Bashir Humphreys
17. Tino Anjorin
18.

Armando Broja
19. David Datro Fofana
20. Romelu Lukaku
21.

Harvey Vale