Chelsea will lock horns with Manchester United later today in what promises to be an enthralling encounter between two sides who have had similar issues in the Premier League this season.
Both sides have had defensive problems, but did well in their respective Champions League outings this past mid-week. Chelsea will be buoyed by a clean-sheet against Sevilla, although failed to trouble the scorers.
Frank Lampard’s side lost both their league games against the Red Devils last season and will look to make that right at Old Trafford today. The hosts are yet to pick up a point at home, and if Lampard’s side perform at the top of their game, that wretched run for Manchester United could continue.
Chelsea have often started well in games this season, but have let leads slip. They are the only side to be involved in two 3-3 draws already this season, and will hope to put in a more pragmatic display against Manchester United who tend to do well on the counter-attacks against the bigger teams.
Chelsea Team News
Unlike previous league games, Lampard has most of his players available for the trip to Old Trafford. The only absentees will be Kepa Arrizabalaga, who has a shoulder issue, and Billy Gilmour who is recovering from a knee operation.
Predicted Chelsea Lineup vs Manchester United
Goalkeeper
Edouard Mendy has started well and should retain his place in the Chelsea lineup against Manchester United.
Defence
We expect Lampard to go with a four-man defence, with Thiago Silva and Kurt Zouma starting at the heart of the defence. Cesar Azpilicueta is a lot more experienced than Reece James, but the latter’s pace and ability to drive forward will be a handy weapon against Manchester United.
Ben Chilwell has done reasonably well for Chelsea considering the time he has spent with the rest of the squad, and he should make the Chelsea lineup at left-back.
Midfield
Both N’Golo Kante and Jorginho are expected to start in midfield once again. The former will have a key role to play against United as Solskjaer’s side are at their best during transitions.
Kai Havertz is likely to play the number 10 role in the Chelsea lineup. The German has combined well with his compatriot Timo Werner, and if the duo can keep that up against a shaky Manchester United defence, Chelsea could score a few.
Attack
Werner is one of the first names on the team-sheet at the moment after his energetic displays in attack. He is likely to be supported by the duo of Mason Mount and Christian Pulisic, who is fit to play.
The Predicted Chelsea Lineup
