Thomas Tuchel confirms Chelsea team news for Premier League opener vs Everton

Thomas Tuchel has confirmed the Chelsea team news to face Everton on the opening day of the 2022/23 Premier League season.

Chelsea begin the new campaign with a trip to Merseyside and Goodison Park to face Frank Lampard’s Toffees. 

Their pre-season ended on a positive note after a challenging trip to the United States and now the Blues are concluding their preparations ahead of the first game of the season.

Tuchel oversaw some injuries throughout pre-season but nothing major, while Ben Chilwell and Callum Hudson-Odoi returned to training and got minutes under their belts following injuries last season. 

The Chelsea boss fronted the media for the first time since pre-season and confirmed the team news for the trip up north on Saturday evening to face Everton.

Tuchel indicated that Ben Chilwell would not be starting after admitting he cannot just 'throw him in' following his lengthy injury absence.

He said: "He looks better and better, but it seems he needs a little bit more time to adapt to the rhythm and physicality.

"He is impatient, we will never expect him to be fully patient. He knows everything needs its time, he will get the time.

"It's a very, very demanding league and we have to take care of him. We can't just throw him in and see what's coming."

Tuchel wasn't specifically asked about team news but was pleased to be able to use five substitutions which could see him utilise all five at Goodison Park, offering more chances to his players.

He added: "I like it a lot. We were the only league who did not use it. It was a disadvantage in the Champions League.

"We can now use this option, to use more players, to have more impact tactically and physically.

"It gives the players more chance for game time which is key. It's a huge factor in being satisfied and having a good energy constantly if you don't start. We can reward players for their performances in training and games."

After losing last time out at Everton, Tuchel wants his side to be ready to win and ensure they don't suffer another defeat against Frank Lampard's side.

"We played very late last season and lost. We remember very well. Very emotional crowd and team. We know some very familiar faces on the other bench.

"Still, we have nothing but respect for Frank and his staff. It was, and will be very respectful between the two benches, but it will be competitive.

"We do not like to lose. We know what's coming and we will be ready."