Chelsea are due to host their arch-rivals, Tottenham Hotspur, at the Stamford Bridge on Sunday. Both these sides are desperate to finish inside the top-four spots of the Premier League table. Although the Lilywhites are currently leading the Blues by 5 points, Antonio Conte’s men would be craving to curtail the gap.
Team News
Thibaut Courtois is currently nursing a hamstring injury whereas Andreas Christiansen is seemingly fatigued. While Andreas Christiansen is doubtful to start, David Luiz is sidelined. Ross Barkley continues to remain absent.
Here is how we expect Conte to roll out his starting line-up against Mauricio Pochettino’s entourage.
Goalkeeper
Willy Caballero might be called upon by Conte to cater to his side’s goalkeeping needs amidst the likelihood of Courtois’ absence. Caballero has been a decent deputy to Courtois and he would be aiming to impress the manager by producing a commendable outing against Spurs.
Defence
Gary Cahill’s experience would hold a paramount importance for Chelsea in the upcoming fixture and he is expected to be stationed at the back line alongside Antonio Rudiger and Cesar Azpilicueta. The defensive line of the reigning English champions has to be on their toes and they must try to suffocate Spurs’ attackers.
Fullbacks
Marcos Alonso has been one of the best players for Chelsea this season. He has galloped forward to score goals as well as to create chances and there is no denying that he has made immense defensive contributions as well.
Alonso would be one of the first names to be in the starting line-up and he is expected to take up the left-wing back role. Victor Moses can also attack and defend with equal gusto and he is seemingly likely to get the nod to start from the right-wingback.
Midfield
The creativity that Cesc Fabregas offers would be crucial as the Spaniard jots down precise passes which will enable Chelsea in unlocking the resolute back line of Pochettino’s outfit. Meanwhile, N’Golo Kante’s has to offer his composure and grit in the middle of the park to pull the strings for his employers this weekend.
Attack
We expect Olivier Giroud to be picked ahead of Alvaro Morata as the latter has been in a stuttering form lately and has been severely inconsistent. Giroud’s link-up play and the ability to hold the ball in the final third would make him a handy asset in the London derby.
From the right-wing, Willian would be a decent option owing to the attacking prowess that he offers, whereas from the left-wing, we expect Eden Hazard to start once again to question Spurs’ defence.
