Predicted XI: Conte forced into strange new XI by injuries and suspensions

Chelsea are in perhaps their worst spell of the season, and just at the worst time, they’ve been hit with a wave of injuries and suspensions.

Cesc Fabregas is carrying a hamstring problem. Alvaro Morata and Pedro are suspended. Gary Cahill has already been ruled out of tomorrow’s game. Ross Barkley is unlikely to be fit enough to start.

Even worse, the players who are available are largely in terrible form. Antonio Conte has to first decide on a formation and then a lineup.

Assuming he doesn’t go mad and change to a back 4, we already know the first 6 names on the teamsheet with Cahill out:

Courtois

Azpilicueta-Christensen-Rudiger

Out wide, Moses and Alonso at least got a rest in midweek.

With Pedro and Morata out and with no real alternatives to the forward other than the floundering Batshuayi, the front three of Hazard, Batshuayi and Willian picks itself.

In the final two spots in midfield N’Golo Kante is a certainty. And to partner him? Conte has the choice between the out of form summer signing Danny Drinkwater and the out of form summer signing Tiemoue Bakayoko.

It’s a tough one, but given Conte’s tendencies, we will probably see Bakayoko take the final spot.

Chelsea News