Chelsea face Liverpool in Carabao Cup fourth-round clash

Chelsea travel to Anfield on Tuesday for a fourth-round Carabao Cup tie against Liverpool, with Cole Palmer suspended following his red card against Tottenham at the weekend.

The two clubs have met ten times previously in the League Cup, with Chelsea winning three of the four finals between them. This is the first time the fixture has been staged at the fourth-round stage.

Chelsea are unbeaten in three matches against Liverpool since a 2-1 Premier League defeat at Anfield in October 2024, winning twice and drawing once. The Blues have also gone four cup games at Anfield without defeat — across the League Cup and Champions League — since a semi-final loss in 2007.

Liverpool are in strong form heading into the tie, having won four consecutive matches after their earlier league defeat to Manchester City. Cody Gakpo has scored seven goals in six League Cup appearances for Liverpool at Anfield, netting in every one of those matches.

Chelsea sit fifth in the Premier League with 13 points from eight games. Liverpool are fourth with 15 points, having conceded just eight goals in eight league matches this season.

Palmer's absence leaves Chelsea without their key creator. Malo Gusto would reach 100 club starts if selected. Referee Darren England takes charge; there is no VAR.

The match will be Liverpool's second successive League Cup home tie against London opposition, having beaten Tottenham 3-1 in the third round. Liverpool exited at this stage last season, losing 3-0 to Crystal Palace at Anfield.