Bournemouth are likely to throw a new challenge to Chelsea when they host the Blues at the Vitality Stadium. Eddie Howe’s side has rarely looked threatening this season but their win against Stoke City in the last match has provided the young manager with a much-needed breathing space.
Following their brilliant form last season, the Cherries have somehow failed to follow up this term. Howe invested a decent sum in this summer to have a complete makeover of the squad but it hasn’t helped them as they are currently lying in the relegation zone.
Following three subpar displays, Chelsea picked themselves up pretty convincingly as they registered successive wins in the last two matches against Watford and Everton respectively. Both teams are currently dealing with a number of injuries and it is likely to be a very interesting contest given the crucial proposition of the situation.
Conte is likely to go all out in this match as a win for his side will help them to reduce the gap with Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur as one of them will definitely lose ground in the next match.
Predicted 4-4-2 Bournemouth Lineup Vs Chelsea
Defence
Asmir Begovic is in line to face his former club. The Bosnian international moved to the South Coast in the summer and will like to have a cleansheet against the Blues.
Nathan Ake, another Chelsea product will make a start against his former employer. He will be alongside captain Simon Francis who will be given the huge task of containing Alvaro Morata.
Charlie Daniels will be on the left side while Adam Smith will be on the right side of the defence.
Midfield
Andrew Surman needs to do all the pressing and in the middle of the pitch. The Blues have been in a good run of form and if they are to be stopped, Surman has to put his pedal on the accelerator.
Harry Arter’s experience in this kind of big matches would be of huge help and he is likely to be reinstated to the starting lineup.
Attack
Junior Stanislas has been a livewire down the left flank and will try to create an instant impact. Jordan Ibe is likely to get another start on the right flank.
Callum Wilson impressed in the Carabao Cup win over Middlesbrough and is likely to be unleashed in this crucial match. Benik Afobe will be his strike partner up front.
