The last game against Watford was a mere formality for the Blues after they had secured the title beating West Bromwich Albion the previous week itself. And they will head out to the next game impatiently with the title-lifting ceremony at the back of their minds.
Chelsea playing Sunderland will be the most futile game of matchweek-38, given both their fates have been sealed at different ends. However, Sunderland would want to bow out of the Premier League on a good note and what better way than to finish the season by beating the new league champions in their own backyard.
But, given the Black Cats’ recent run of low confidence, which was put into exhibition clearly against Arsenal in the midweek doesn’t indicate any such thing happening. Apart from their impressive goalie, nothing worked for David Moyes, and Sunderland’s head-to-head record with Chelsea says it will continue to be so.
The Blues have lost 20 of their last 24 league games against them, although the London side has also lost twice in the last six games. Sunderland have the second worst record against them losing 22 league games after Manchester United, who have beaten them 23 times.
Possible Chelsea XI vs Sunderland
Defence
Asmir Begovic will once again take his position under the bar, it seems. The Bosnian international hasn’t seen much first team action this season with the side contesting only for the league and FA Cup, and the coach is giving him the last few games now. Lack of regular playing time has taken its toll on the player, as we saw in the last game against Watford.
The three-man defence is also likely to remain the same from the last game. With Champions League in mind, the Italian boss has started experimenting with the available defensive positions on the bench, and it didn’t fare well. Watford found the net three times, an indication of how underprepared Chelsea’s bench is. With John Terry taking the central role, Nathan Ake and Kurt Zouma will take the sides.
Cesar Azpilicueta got a goal from the right wing-back position last game, showing just how much of a utility player he is. Marcos Alonso started from the bench with Kenedy taking his place on the left wing.
Midfield
N’Golo didn’t get rest last game unlike Nemanja Matic proving how important he is for the team. He will be partnered by the young English midfielder, Nathaniel Chalobah. The attacking midfielders will be Eden Hazard and Willian.
Attack
Diego Costa remained on the bench last game with Michy Batshuayi leading the attack and we expect things to remain that way.
