Michael Skubala’s side have been impressive so far this season, losing only once in all competitions as they push for promotion to the Championship. They followed up a 1-0 win over Burton Albion with a 3-1 victory against Luton Town on Saturday, stretching their unbeaten run to 10 matches. That result kept them third in League One, just one point behind Stevenage and two off leaders Bradford City.
The Imps have been particularly strong at home, winning five and drawing two of their last seven fixtures at the LNER Stadium. After overcoming Harrogate Town and Burton to reach this stage, they now have the chance to test themselves against Premier League opposition in front of their own fans.
Chelsea, meanwhile, have had a mixed start to the campaign. Enzo Maresca’s men have won only two of their opening five league games and were beaten 2-1 by Manchester United at the weekend. Their task was made harder by the early red card shown to goalkeeper Robert Sanchez, which forced Maresca into a series of defensive substitutions that limited their attacking threat.
The Blues sit sixth in the table with eight points, already seven adrift of leaders Liverpool but only two behind Bournemouth in fourth. Although Chelsea have often been criticised in recent years for instability both on and off the pitch, they have still found ways to collect silverware, lifting the UEFA Conference League last season while giving valuable experience to younger players.
They last reached the EFL Cup final in 2024, losing to the eventual league champions, but they will see this year’s competition as another opportunity to challenge for a trophy and give their fringe players a chance to impress.
INJURIES & SUSPENSION
Lincoln will be without attacking midfielder Jack Moylan, who is still recovering from an ankle injury, while Dom Jefferies faces a late fitness test on a hip problem. If Jefferies is unavailable, Oscar Thorn and Francis Okoronkwo could be drafted in to support Freddie Draper in attack.On the right side of defence, Wolves loanee Dexter Lembikisa is still waiting for his debut. Should he not be ready to feature, Lewis Montsma may step into the role instead.
Chelsea, meanwhile, are dealing with a lengthy injury list. Goalkeeper Robert Sanchez is suspended after his red card against Manchester United, meaning Filip Jorgensen is expected to start in goal. Tuesday’s game will also come too soon for Romeo Lavia and Benoît Badiashile, so Tosin Adarabioyo and Trevoh Chalobah are likely to partner at centre-back, with Andrey Santos lining up alongside Enzo Fernández in midfield.
Long-term absentees Liam Delap and Levi Colwill remain sidelined as they recover from thigh and knee injuries respectively. Cole Palmer could return but will need to be assessed after struggling with a recurring groin issue.
POSSIBLE LINE-UPS
Lincoln City possible starting lineup:Jeacock; Montsma, Jackson, Bradley, Reach; House, Barbrook, Ring; Thorn, Draper, Okoronkwo
Chelsea possible starting lineup:
Jorgensen; Gusto, Tosin, Chalobah, Hato; Santos, Fernandez; Garnacho, Estevao, Gittens; Guiu
EXPERT PREDICTION
Lincoln 1-4 Chelsea
Lincoln’s strong form this season and their resilience suggest they could cause Chelsea problems on Tuesday night. Even so, the difference in individual quality is likely to tell, especially with players such as Cole Palmer, Jamie Gittens, Alejandro Garnacho and Estevão expected to feature for the visitors
