Chelsea will lock horns with West Ham United at the London Stadium on Saturday night, hoping to pick up a positive result on their travels. The Blues recorded a lacklustre 0-0 draw against Brighton on Tuesday, whereas the Hammers recorded a 3-2 loss versus Newcastle United.
Thomas Tuchel will probably opt for the 3-4-3 formation with a few tweaks from the last game. Ben Chilwell might get the nod over Marcos Alonso, whereas Christian Pulisic looks likely to make his way back into the starting eleven.
3-4-3 Chelsea Predicted Lineup Vs West Ham United
Defence
Edouard Mendy will replace Kepa Arrizabalaga in between the sticks for the upcoming away encounter. The Senegalese shot-stopper will hope to put up a strong performance and secure a clean sheet on Saturday.
Thiago Silva missed out on the draw against Brighton, but he might return to feature this weekend.
“With Thiago, it’s a bit different, not because of injury but maybe because of acute overload after his injury with the two games. He’s not injured, but we have to see if it makes sense that he starts again.” – Thomas Tuchel revealed in his pre-match press conference.
As a result, the Brazilian centre-back is expected to replace Kurt Zouma at the heart of Blues’ backline, whereas Antonio Rudiger will continue to feature at the left centre-back spot. Cesar Azpilicueta will fulfil the right centre-back position.
However, their prime objective will be to keep Jesse Lingard quiet throughout the ninety minutes.
Midfield
N’Golo Kante and Jorginho will fulfil the holding midfield positions, with the former occupying a more central role. The pair would be looking to dominate the midfield proceedings.
There has been no new update on Mateo Kovacic, though.
“I think, and I hope that it’s only Kova we have out with injury.” – Tuchel stated in midweek.
Ben Chilwell might replace Marcos Alonso at the left wing-back position, whereas Reece James will fill in on the other flank as the right wing-back.
Attack
Mason Mount and Christian Pulisic will slot into the attacking midfield roles. The duo would be determined to set up some clear cut goal-scoring chances for the front-men.
Kai Havertz will lead the line for the home side against Brighton. The German international has found himself struggling in front of the goal this season, so he’ll be determined to impress against David Moyes’ men.
Timo Werner might come on to make a cameo appearance in the second forty-five minutes.
