Chelsea started 2020 on a dour note as they could only draw 1-1 against Brighton. The Blues have an easier fixture on Sunday in the FA Cup when they host Championship side Nottingham Forest at Stamford Bridge.
The Londoners progressed to the 5th round of the FA Cup last season, before being knocked out by Manchester United at home.
Frank Lampard will be looking to put out a strong team to progress further in the Cup and give themselves an opportunity to win some silverware this season.
Chelsea Team News
Olivier Giroud and Ruben Loftus-Cheek are expected to miss the tie, while Marcos Alonso and Fikayo Tomori are doubts for the game.
Let’s take a look at the possible Chelsea team for the game against Nottingham Forest:
Predicted Chelsea Lineup vs Nottingham Forest
Goalkeeper
Reserve goalkeeper Willy Caballero has played two matches this season, both coming in the League Cup. He could get a run out in this game, replacing Kepa.
Defence
Andreas Christensen could come into the Chelsea lineup to replace either Kurt Zouma or Antonio Rudiger.
The latter may get a rest, having played the full 90 minutes in the last four games for Chelsea. Reece James will most likely keep his place at right-back, while captain César Azpilicueta could get a rest and be replaced by Emerson at left-back.
19-year-old Tariq Lamptey is an option at right-back as well, having impressed against Arsenal last Sunday.
Midfield
Mason Mount, N’Golo Kanté, and Jorginho started as the midfield three last time around, but we could see one of them drop out of the Chelsea lineup to give Mateo Kovacic a start.
Mount could move to the No. 10 role, having played as a midfield three against Brighton. Ross Barkley could also be an option for Lampard, but he may not start the game as he hasn’t played in over two months.
Attack
Willian, who has been in superb form for Chelsea this season, could drop to the bench and be replaced by Callum Hudson-Odoi in the Chelsea lineup.
Christian Pulisic could keep his place in the Chelsea team, playing off the left for the Blues. It will be interesting to see if Michy Batshuayi starts, having started both League Cup games for Chelsea.
The Belgian could replace Tammy Abraham as Chelsea’s main striker for the cup tie.
