The Blues are in for a tough match against Hull City in the fifth round of the FA Cup. Although it would seem that the Tigers are not a great threat to a top four side, Chelsea’s current form has left them begging for results against everyone. Antonio Conte’s men were beaten 3-0 and 4-1 by Bournemouth and Watford in back to back league games before recovering some form against West Brom and it has left everyone wondering whether the Blues are facing a repeat of the 2015-16 season. Conte will also know that the FA Cup will be best his chance of winning a trophy this season and will not take this match lightly.
With many injuries and the upcoming Barcelona game to worry about, here is how Conte will look to set his side up.
Formation: 3-4-3
Defence
In goal, we can once again expect to see the familiar face of Thibaut Courtois replaced by Willy Caballero. The Belgian who has conceded 7 goals in 2 games for the first time in his career kept a clean sheet against West Brom and might be rested with the Champions League just around the corner. Caballero has been doing a decent job as a backup and should have a comfortable time.
Victor Moses can be expected to be rested with Davide Zappacosta filling in at right wing-back. On the left channel, Conte will want to give new signing Emerson his much-awaited debut.
Gary Cahill sat out after having yet another howler of a performance, only this time his mistakes were capitalized upon left him no room to hide. He will be back for the FA Cup tie alongside Antonio Rudiger who will want to use this as an opportunity to start the Barcelona game. David Luiz is likely to return with Andreas Christensen rested. Cesar Azpilicueta might also get some much-needed rest.
Midfield
N’Golo Kante will once again be tasked with being the team’s battery by running up and down to break attacks and help his team regain the ball. He was less handicapped owing to the suspension of Tiemoue Bakayoko and Kante could for once focus on his game rather than correct Bakayoko’s ceaseless silly errors. Kante is likely to be partnered by his former Leicester City partner Danny Drinkwater.
Attack
Pedro is sure to start on the right wing. Eden Hazard, who has been impetuous will be rested with Willian filling the other wing and new signing Olivier Giroud expected to have his second start.
