Chelsea will be desperate for three points as they take on Liverpool on Sunday. After a run of three draws in the last four league matches, the Blues are running the risk of losing out on the title race and simply cannot afford to drop points once again, if they are to keep up with league leaders Manchester City. But things are ought to get tough as they lock horns with the Reds, who are equally desperate for a win after dropping points against Leicester City.
Predicted Chelsea Lineup Vs Liverpool
Defence
Chelsea had Ben Chilwell and Thiago Silva out injured this week, and it appears they are now set to miss out on the services of Reece James. The Englishman had picked up a knock in the recent game against Brighton, thus ruling him out of the Liverpool match.
Reece’s absence may force Thomas Tuchel to opt for Cesar Azpilicueta in the right wingback role. The German does have other alternatives in Christian Pulisic and even Callum Hudson-Odoi, but given the strength of the Liverpool attack, Azpilicueta’s experience could be preferred.
In central defence, Trevoh Chalobah should return to the side, partnering Andreas Christensen and Antonio Rudiger in the Chelsea back-three who will have their work cut out against the mighty Reds. Edouard Mendy should retain his place in goal as well, but perhaps for the one last time before he heads to Senegal for the upcoming African Cup of Nations.
Elsewhere in the backline, the injury of James and Chilwell leaves Marcos Alonso as the only viable option for Tuchel at left wingback.
Midfield
In midfield, it seems N’Golo Kante is slowly returning to full fitness. The Frenchman featured as a substitute in the last game, and may well start alongside Jorginho in the double-pivot this weekend.
Tuchel has no shortage of alternatives, however, with Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Saul Niguez and Mateo Kovacic all likely to be available in the middle of the park.
Attack
As for the attacking department, Romelu Lukaku should once again spearhead the Chelsea frontline. Tuchel may also have Kai Havertz back in contention to start, although the German is likely to feature on the bench once again.
It should see Callum Hudson-Odoi and Mason Mount once again forcing the crux of Chelsea’s creative department. Their creativity and combination play could go a long way in supplying Lukaku in the final third, while the likes of Pulisic, Havertz and Hakim Ziyech should serve as additional alternatives in the attack.
