Stoke City will have a huge task on their hands when they will host Chelsea on 18th March. The Potters had an awful start to the season losing four matches on a trot in the initial stages. But they managed to inject a lease of life to their Premier League campaign later on. They have lost only three matches at the Bet365 stadium and would offer a tough fight to table toppers, Chelsea.
Mark Hughes’ men are known for upsetting top teams and usually, teams find it difficult to play on their home ground. In the last 17 meetings between Chelsea and Stoke, the Potters have managed to win only on two occasions and interestingly both the wins came at the Bet365 stadium. Stoke will be jubilant after their 0-0 draw against the mighty Manchester City. A strong City attack couldn’t break the Stoke defence as the Potters left the Etihad with a crucial point.
Chelsea were victorious in the reverse fixture as the Blues dominated the Stamford Bridge encounter with a 4-2 win. But since then a lot of water has gone under the bridge and both the teams have had their ups and downs. Mark Hughes knows the importance of this match and would definitely want to give the Blues a taste of their own medicine.
Chelsea will be high on confidence after their 1-0 win over Manchester United in the FA Cup quarter-final and it will be an intriguing battle between the two sides.
Predicted 4-4-2 Stoke City Lineup Against Chelsea
Defence
Jack Butland remains sidelined and that means Lee Grant will continue in the Stoke City goal.
Bruno Martins Indi and Ryan Shawcross will once again line up in the centre back position. Martins Indi has particularly impressed and talks are going on to make his move permanent.
Eric Pieters will continue as left back.
Glen Johnson is on the way to recover and should be fit in time to face Chelsea.
Midfield
Joe Allen has been pretty impressive since his move from Liverpool. He will be partnered with Geoff Cameron in midfield.
Attack
Ramadan Sobhi will be stationed on the left wing. The youngster has racked up 11 appearances in the English top flight so far and is slowly finding his feet.
Xherdan Shaqiri is fully fit and is set to get back in the starting lineup in place of Mame Biram Diouf who is rated doubtful.
Peter Crouch and Saido Berahino will start up front and will have the responsibility to get the better of the Chelsea defenders.
