Here we are again, another must win game and this time against a side in a similar positions to ourselves – but will the side show of the LVG/Jose scenario be more interesting that the game itself?
United haven’t won in their last 5 Premier League matches and the grumbles coming from Old Trafford are about the way they are playing; devoid of any idea, a lot of boring possession with not a lot of goals.
They are there for the taking today – a bit of confidence and an attacking mentality should give us a positive result.
4-3-3
GK – Thibaut Courtois: Having been unlucky to concede two against Watford, Courtois will still be one of the first names on the teamsheet after providing some stability to the Chelsea defence since his return from injury.
Defenders
RB – Branislav Ivanovic: While many fans use the Serb as a scapegoat, they know that he will start every game without fail if fit. Brilliant defensively on his day and mistakes have been kept to a minimum in recent weeks. Scored the opener against Sunderland nine days ago. Lets hope his crossing can improve for this one.
CB – Kurt Zouma & John Terry: Appears to be the preferred partnership in defence for Chelsea now as Gary Cahill adapts to a place on the bench.
LB – Cesar Azpilicueta: A constant in the Chelsea side – one of the few players who received a cheer from the Chelsea faithful in the first game after Mourinho’s sacking. Likely to pick his moments to go forward with the main priority being defending.
Midfielders
CDM – Nemanja Matic: Still a vital piece of the Chelsea jigsaw despite a below-par season so far for the Serb. Seems to have improved slightly since Mourinho departed.
CM – Oscar & Ramires: Chelsea’s Brazilian pair could provide the attacking threat from midfield with Ramires usually deployed for high-stake games such as this. Oscar appears to be building some kind of form which will be welcome news for fans who know how effective he can be.
Forwards
RW – Pedro: The former Barcelona man has gone through a mini-revival since Mourinho’s departure and with Hazard apparently out injured, this is a great opportunity for Pedro to really make his mark at Chelsea.
CF – Loic Remy: Costa’s needless yellow card rules him out of this crunch tie and with Falcao facing a late fitness test, Remy seems to most likely replacement. Tends to score on the rare occasion he makes it onto the field.
LW – Willian: Undoubtedly Chelsea’s standout man this season and provided an inch-perfect pass for Costa’s equaliser against Watford on Saturday to continue his fine form.
