Chelsea travel to Villa Park as they take on Dean Smith’s relegation-battling Aston Villa on Saturday evening in the Premier League.
Frank Lampard has managed to bring the team back to winning ways. They need to take maximum points from this fixture to ensure top-four finish. The Blues are heading into this game on the back of a thumping 4-0 victory over Everton.
On the other hand, Villa would be hoping to turn things around for themselves but will face a huge task against the fourth-placed team.
Injuries to key players have been a concern for the manager throughout the campaign. Mason Mount, who starred in the last game, picked up a knock and is doubtful against Villa.
While Callum Hudson-Odoi, Mateo Kovacic and N’Golo Kante are the other notable absentees from the games, Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Christian Pulisic are also doubtful due to the lack of fitness.
The Spaniard was left out of several games in the past few weeks but made a tremendous comeback in the game against Liverpool. He is expected to retain his spot and would be hoping to prove his worth.
Azpilicueta will be leading the team from the back. He has done a decent job so far and will be expected to help the team’s attack.
The German international is the only in-form centre-back for the Blues. He is an undoubted starter and will need to be at his best against the Villans.
The 25-year-old has been in and out of the team this season but will continue to partner with Rudiger after a good show in the last outing against Everton.
The former Real Madrid man fell down the pecking order but seems to have regained form. He was clinical against Tottenham and needs to be perfect in defensive situations as he has done in the attacking phase.
After missing out on the last game due to suspension, the Italian should return to the starting XI. He will be the key for Chelsea in the middle of the park.
Gilmour’s performance against Liverpool would make it hard for the manager to drop him for this game. He was exceptional against the Toffees too last weekend and is likely to be an undoubted starter.
The Englishman was on point with his assist for Pedro and will retain his spot in the absence of several other key midfielders. Needs to do well and convince the manager for a regular start.
After almost being on the fringes of an exit, Pedro has started in the last three games for the Blues. His experience will play a vital role in the game.
The Brazilian has been good in the past few months and will retain his spot. Should look to provide enough in the final third.
The Frenchman has led the line brilliantly in the absence of Abraham. He will be the lone striker and would be hoping to score a few more in this fixture.
