Chelsea managed to edge closer to the League Cup earlier this week, as they beat Bournemouth to move into the semi-finals of the competition. They should now turn their attention to the domestic league, as they have a tricky trip to Goodison Park waiting for them today. Everton, under Sam Allardyce, have been in decent form, picking up 13 points in their last five league games.
Antonio Conte’s men cannot afford to lose any more ground, standing just three points above Liverpool in the 3rd place with a game to spare. However, it will not be easy for them to pick up all three points in this game. Here is the predicted lineup Conte might field for this tie:
Team News:
The manager has no new injury issues to worry about ahead of this tie. David Luiz and Charly Musonda are still out injured while Alvaro Morata, who picked up a freak booking for his celebration in the last game, is now suspended. They can, however, welcome back Marcos Alonso, who served a suspension in the previous tie.
Expected lineup (3-4-3):
Defence:
Thibaut Courtois remains the first choice shot-stopper for Conte this season and is expected to start under the bar against Everton. Spaniard Cesar Azpilicueta was given a rest earlier in the week but should be back in action, on the right side of the backline for Chelsea.
Thomas Christensen has cemented a place in the first team in the absence of David Luiz and the youngster is expected to keep his place in the side for this game. Both Antonio Rudiger and Gary Cahill played the League Cup tie but the English international is expected to start, on the left side of the backline.
Midfield:
French duo Tiemoue Bakayoko and N’Golo Kante have played well in tandem but have not been consistent enough for Conte’s liking. However, to add some mettle to the midfield, both players are expected to start this game for the visitors.
Victor Moses is the first choice wing-back on the right flank while Marcos Alonso is the same on the left-flank. Both players will look to create as many chances as they can, against a well drilled Everton side, who are expected to sit deep. They will be responsible for adding some width to the Chelsea attack.
Attack:
With Morata out suspended and Michy Batshuayi not impressive enough, Conte has no option but to use Belgian playmaker Eden Hazard as a false 9. He has been effective in this role in the past and will be up against the likes of Ashley Williams and Mason Holgate, who are in good form.
This should see wing-duo Willian and Pedro start on either flank.
Here is how they might line up:
