A London Derby between Chelsea and Arsenal is always a special affair, but the match on Tuesday is going to a bit extra special.
On one hand, we will have two managers in the dugouts who have met each other multiple times in the field. Sometimes Frank Lampard outclassed Mikel Arteta in the midfield, and sometimes the vice versa was true. On the other hand, it will be redemption time for the Gunners.
The last time the two sides faced off, Chelsea came from behind to beat Arsenal late in the game at the Emirates. Ahead of the clash, let us have a look at three such key player battles:
Chelsea vs Arsenal – 3 key battles
#1 Bukayo Saka vs Callum Hudson-Odoi
Arsenal have some problems in the left-back position. Kieran Tierney, the man who joined the club only last summer, is dealing with a shoulder injury. Sead Kolasinac has been playing in his absence, but even he is now sidelined with a thigh injury.
In their absence, teenager Bukayo Saka is expected to play as a left-back, since Arteta is short on options. Saka will be entrusted with the task of keeping another young English talent, Callum Hudson-Odoi at bay.
At his best, Hudson-Odoi is one of the most promising wingers of world football. Hence, it will be interesting to see how Saka deals with his pace and skills.
#2 Jorginho vs Lucas Torreira
Though Chelsea managed to win at Emirates Stadium, Arsenal dominated the majority of the game. But things changed completely when Lampard introduced Jorginho in his midfield.
The Italian midfielder managed to get his side going and turned things around in no time. Arsenal midfielders had a hard time dealing with the midfielder.
It will be interesting to see whether Jorginho recreates his magic again or will in-form Lucas Torreira have the last laugh.
#3 Reece James vs Gabriel Martinelli
Just like the Saka v Hudson-Odoi battle, the battle between Reece James and Gabriel Martinelli is one to watch out for.
Both James and Martinelli have been surprise packages of this season. James, the young and pacey right-back, has done a fairly decent job for Chelsea so far.
Martinelli has also adjusted well coming from Brazil, and has been a threat down the left flank. Hence, both will be willing to prove their calibre yet again at the Stamford Bridge.