WIGAN manager Steve Bruce must assess his international contingent before naming his side to face Chelsea.

The Latics had eight players away on international duty this week, some only returning on Friday, and Bruce may make changes for Sunday - following an opening-day defeat at West Ham.

Jason Koumas is pushing for a start after scoring for Wales, and Ryan Taylor (shin) is back in contention - while Erik Edman (knee ligament) remains on course for an October return after resuming light training this week.

Chelsea midfielder Michael Ballack has responded well to his ankle injury and could feature.

Full-back Jose Bosingwa has also been carrying a knock but should be ready, while Michael Essien could also feature after missing the start of the season.

Didier Drogba (knee) and Andriy Shevchenko (groin) miss out but Salomon Kalou is back from the Olympic Games.

Wigan Athletic (from): Kirkland, Melchiot, Boyce, Scharner, Figueroa, Valencia, Cattermole, Palacios, Kapo, Heskey, Zaki, Bramble, Brown, De Ridder, Kilbane, Koumas, Taylor, Camara, Sibierski, Montrose, Nash, Pollitt.

Chelsea (from): Cech, Cudicini, Bosingwa, Belletti, Terry, Carvalho, Alex, A Cole, J Cole, Lampard, Essien, Ballack, Deco, Mikel, Anelka, Wright-Phillips, Malouda, Di Santo.

Key opponent: Frank Lampard - always a goal threat

Prediction: Wigan 0 Chelsea 1 - Chelsea look strong this season

Agree with the prediciton? Have your say.

You can get 12/1 on Wigan winning 1-0 with Betfred. For this and more odds, click here.

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