Chelsea’s 14-game undefeated streak in all competitions and seven consecutive clean sheets under head coach Thomas Tuchel came to an end this past weekend in a devastating fashion.
The Blues regained momentum with a Champions League victory against FC Porto. They had 6 shots, 3 on target and a couple of goals to seal a 0-2 win but that should be enough heading into the second leg at Stamford Bridge.
Their Premier League opponents of tomorrow, Crystal Palace played out a well-deserved draw against Everton in the last game and will back themselves to take at least a point out of the match-up against the Blues.
Chelsea Team News
Thiago Silva will be serving his domestic suspension and hence won’t be available.
But other than that, Thomas Tuchel has a fully fit squad to choose from.
Defence
The manager will stick with Edouard Mendy in goal. He is hot on the heels of Ederson for the Golden Glove and will be keen to keep a clean sheet and maintain pressure on the Brazilian.
In the absence of Thiago Silva, we expect Andreas Christensen to keep his place ahead of Kurt Zouma, who had a torrid time against the Baggies.
Antonio Rudiger seems to be a nailed-on starter when fit and available while Cesar Azpilicueta will complete the back three.
Midfield
N’Golo Kante should be in line for a start in the Chelsea lineup. He could replace Kovacic who might be in need of a breather after three consecutive starts for club and country. The Frenchman should be partnered with Jorginho in central midfield.
With the second leg against Porto coming up, we feel there will be rotation in the wingback roles. Callum Hudson-Odoi could start on the right in the Chelsea lineup while rotation should continue on the opposite flank, with Marcos Alonso replacing Ben Chilwell.
Attack
Tuchel has options to choose from in the attacking areas even if he decides to rotate his usual selections.
He mentioned Christian Pulisic has ‘good momentum’ behind him which could point towards a start tomorrow. Hakim Ziyech is an alternative.
With two goals in the last two games, Mason Mount will also hope for a start in the Chelsea lineup.
Though we might have egg on our face by Saturday, we feel Olivier Giroud will be handed a start ahead of Timo Werner and Tammy Abraham.
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