After starting our top-flight campaign with a victory at Fulham, and then defeating Luton Town in the Carabao Cup, the Blues are looking to make it three wins from three under Alonso, who was appointed manager earlier this summer.

Martinez's signing from Aston Villa was confirmed this morning, and the Argentine goalkeeper goes straight into the starting XI to make his debut in front of the Stamford Bridge faithful.

The 33-year-old will be protected by a back three consisting of Wesley Fofana, Maxence Lacroix and Levi Colwill – who skippers Chelsea today against his former loan club – with Pedro Neto and Jorrel Hato expected as the right and left wing-backs.

Romeo Lavia looks set to be partnered by Malo Gusto in midfield, while Alonso has reverted to the attack that started against Fulham on Monday night. Each of Cole Palmer, Morgan Rogers and Joao Pedro scored in the game and will hope to do the same against the Seagulls.

Danny Welbeck, who netted against Luton on Thursday night, starts on the bench against his former club, as do former Albion duo Moises Caicedo and Valentin Barco.

Chelsea: Martinez; Fofana, Lacroix, Colwill (c); Neto, Gusto, Lavia, Hato; Palmer, Rogers; Joao Pedro.

Chelsea substitutes: Penders, James, Acheampong, Chavarria, Caicedo, Barco, Gittens, Estevao Willian, Welbeck.