Chelsea’s winning streak was ended by West Ham United as Maurizio Sarri’s men were held to a goalless draw last weekend in the Premier League. The Blues failed to break down a resolute West Ham defence that defended deep inside their own half.
However, Chelsea got themselves back to winning ways in the third round of the League Cup as the Blues beat Liverpool 2-1 in what proved to be a remarkable comeback inspired by Eden Hazard from the bench.
And Saturday’s contest at Stamford Bridge is set to present another intriguing battle as the Blues lock horns with the Reds in the quest for supremacy at the top of the league table.
Pedro continues to recover from his shoulder injury and is doubtful to feature on Saturday.
Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Antonio Rudiger are also not expected to be available for selection as they are yet to fully recover from their calf and groin injuries respectively.
The Spaniard has looked pretty solid between the sticks for the Blues this season and must replace Willy Caballero on Saturday.
Cesar Azpilicueta (RB)
The Spaniard did not have the best of games in the League Cup but he has been one of the most consistent performers for Chelsea and should start on Saturday.
Gary Cahill (CB)
The veteran looked quite composed at the back and was the pick of the backline in the League Cup tie. He should replace the injured Antonio Rudiger in the starting XI.
David Luiz (CB)
The Brazilian hasn’t been particularly good with his positioning and has often let the team down due to lapses in concentration. However, he is the best that Chelsea have Sarri should hand him another start.
Marcos Alonso (LB)
The Spaniard has been one of Chelsea’s standout performers of the season and has contributed equally to both the defence and the attack. Must start on Saturday.
The summer recruit has built a good reputation for himself as one of the most flawless passers in the Premier League and Sarri should hand him another start ahead of Cesc Fabregas.
N’Golo Kante (RCM)
The Frenchman has been his usual energetic self in the heart of the midfield and Sarri is unlikely to bench him against Liverpool.
Mateo Kovacic (LCM)
The Croatian has established himself as one of the first names on the team sheet with some solid tackles and crucial interceptions in the midfield and Sarri should hand him another start.
Chelsea’s indispensable weapon in the final third has been in red-hot form this season and inspired the Blues to a victory in the League Cup game. He will play a pivotal role once again on Saturday.
Willian (RW)
The Brazilian had a rather quiet game against Liverpool in the League Cup but Sarri must hand him a start since Pedro is yet to regain full fitness.
Olivier Giroud (ST)
The World Cup winner didn’t have the best of games against West Ham but combined effectively with Hazard and Willian in the previous games. He should start on Saturday in place of Alvaro Morata.