Antonio Conte and his men host championship side Nottingham Forest on 21st September in the Carabao Cup, a competition not known for its prestige compared to the Premier League. Nonetheless, it is a trophy much celebrated by fans.
Chelsea lost to West Ham last year, but look have a deeper and stronger squad to go the distance this time around. They lie third in the league table, top of their Champions League group with a big win and now host an inconsistent championship side.
Chelsea were involved in a frustrating stalemate against their rivals Arsenal last time around in the league and Antonio Conte will be looking to get back to winning ways.
Team news
David Luiz is suspended. Conte hinted that Eden Hazard, who is slowly recovering and looks 10% away from his best, will be given a start. Conte is a master at marshalling his troops and using his bench strength.
Youngsters like Charly Musonda, Kenedy and Christensen are expected to start as some of the big guns of the team might take a back seat in order to be fresh for the weekend league game at Stoke City, not an easy place to visit.
Predicted lineup: (3-4-3 formation)
GK: Willy Caballero
He will probably be in goal for Chelsea in mid-week as Courtois might be given a rest.
LCB: Gary Cahill
Had a long break due to suspension. He will be keen on leading the side from now on.
CB: Andreas Christensen
He was highly impressive in the first couple of games with his clearances, positioning and presence in the box. A player who is more mature than his age suggests.
RCB: Antonio Rudiger
Was sidelined against Arsenal but will be given a start against Forest. He is extremely good in the air and understands the game well.
LWB: Kenedy
Will be looking to impress as Alonso needs a bit of a breather. He is exciting to watch when he is on top of his game, full of tricks and flicks.
CDM: Tiemoue Bakayoko
A monstrous figure, he is capable of breaking play and choking opposition players for space.
CDM: N’Golo Kanté
He was rested in the Champions League game and came on as a substitute. He will mostly start and look to be a thorn in the opponent’s flesh.
RWB: Davidé Zappacosta
What a start he had on his full debut for Chelsea, he is strong and an ideal wing back.
LW: Eden Hazard
He will be the driving force in attack. A senior player now, he will look to bring in some chemistry up front and get an individual performance too. He is capable of destroying the biggest of teams, so Nottingham Forest are unlikely to stop him.
RW: Charlie Musonda
A vibrant, energetic and exciting prospect who might get his chance on Thursday. Much talked about youngster at Cobham.
ST: Michy Batshuayi
Scored and assisted in the Champions League and had a great pre-season. Must start as Morata might get a breather.
