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Chelsea vs Port Vale – Team News: Fans frustrated as Rosenior’s strong side leaves out top academy talent

Originally posted on Chelsea News | By Will Faulks | Last updated Apr 4, 2026 11:40 AM ET

Chelsea face Southampton at Stamford Bridge in just over an hour, and the teams are in! It’s a very strong side for the Blues.

The teams are in for Chelsea’s game against Port Vale at Stamford Bridge today, and it’s a very strong lineup from Liam Rosenior.

We suspected he would pick a good side, but this is beyond even what we thought considering our opposition are bottom of League One.

Robert Sanchez is in goal, with Malo Gusto and Jorrel Hato at full back. Wesley Fofana and Tosin are playing at centre back – honestly, what does Josh Acheampong have to do to get a game?

In midfield, Romeo Lavia plays alongside Andrey Santos. The front line has Estevao and Pedro Neto out wide, with Cole Palmer centrally. He also captains the side.

Joao Pedro leads the line, meaning Liam Delap is on the bench.

Here are the full team line-ups for Chelsea vs Port Vale (kick off at 17:15 GMT)

CHELSEA:

It’s a big galling that Fofana, who has been poor in recent games and also doesn’t really look like he is giving 100% effort, gets another start here. It also seems unnecessary to tire out the likes of Joao Pedro and Palmer ahead of the run in.

Clearly Rosenior just wants a big win.

It looks like a third Chelsea signing is already locked in for this summer, with another Strasbourg player set to join.

Chelsea are likely to pick a pretty strong team for today’s game – but we still expect at least one academy debut.

This article first appeared on Chelsea News and was syndicated with permission.

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