Frank Lampard will be hoping his Chelsea side will capitalise on the situation and qualify for the next round of the Champions League to rest key players going into the festive period.
The former midfielder has made no secret at how difficult the scheduling is over Christmas and described the whole of December’s agenda as ‘brutal’.
A win in Brittany against Rennes could see them qualify if Sevilla get at least a draw away to Krasnodar – which could see Chelsea rotating the side heavily for the last two group games potentially.
Lampard said: “Yeah. I’ve just looked at the schedule through December and it’s brutal. We’re doing a job we love and we want to play regularly, but some of the games around Christmas… I hope it changes.
“We’re due to play Arsenal on Boxing Day then Aston Villa two days later, when that game could easily be pushed back one or two days. I have to be aware of that.
“First and foremost we need to prepare right for this game to try to win it, which is going to be a really tough challenge, but of course if we were to make one step into the next round it would be an opportunity to look at players who need minutes, or to rest players.
“But we still want to win this group, and no matter the result tomorrow we still have to go to Seville the next game. I think it’s going to be competitive throughout, and I’m confident in the squad.
Here’s everything you need to know:
When is the match?
The game kicks off on Tuesday 24 November.
What time is it?
Kick-off is 5.55pm GMT.
How can I watch it?
The match is being broadcast on BT Sport 3.
Subscribers can also stream the game live via the BT Sport website.
What is the team news?
Dalbert misses out for the hosts after being controversially sent off in the match between these two at Stamford Bridge.
Striker Timo Werner could be rested with Abraham likely to keep his place leading the line.
Reece James could also step down to the bench with club captain Cesar Azpilicueta pushing for a recall.
Thiago Silva should return after missing the win over Newcastle at the weekend.
Kai Havertz, missing since testing positive for coronavirus earlier this month, is available for selection.
What are the odds?
Rennes: 9/2
Draw: 16/5
Chelsea: 4/7
