Chelsea vs United: Injuries, Eight-Game Winless Streak

Chelsea are missing three first-team starters while United have failed to win in eight straight league games. Alonso's side lost Reece James, João Pedro and Maxence Lacroix, all out for at least a few weeks. Emi Martínez may return from a broken jaw, but Mike Pender starts in goal today. United sit 16th, just one point above the drop zone after their worst start in 40 years. Carrick admitted Thursday that conversations at the club have been far from rosy. He said he's spoken with Jason Wilcox and Omar Berrada about his future. Bruno Fernandes may lead United as captain after a clear-the-air talk with Carrick. Eddie Howe is being tipped as the prime replacement if Carrick is dismissed. 'It's not always rosy and nice conversations,' Carrick warned, capturing the uneasy mood.