Chelsea (Getty Images)
Chelsea travel to Liverpool as they are set to face the Premier League champions on Wednesday night at Anfield in a thrilling league encounter.
Frank Lampard’s men, despite not being in their best run of form, overcame Manchester United in an easy 3-1 win in the FA Cup. However, nothing but a win against the Reds would keep their hopes of Champions League qualification alive.
On the other hand, Liverpool have not been at their commanding best since the title win and will be hoping to take maximum points from the game.
Though most of the main players are available for selection, Lampard will be without his key midfielder N’Golo Kante. The Frenchman is yet to return to the squad since picking up a hamstring injury.
Young Billy Gilmour also underwent knee surgery and is set to remain on the sidelines. And Marco van Ginkel, who has missed the whole campaign, is still not ready to be on the pitch.
The Spaniard was given a rest in the last outing and is expected to return in goal on Wednesday. He has not been at his best and needs to convince the manager with a solid performance.
Though Reece James has been doing well on the right side of the defence, Azpilicueta should be given the nod as he has immense experience than they youngster. The Spaniard will be leading the team from the back.
The Frenchman’s future at the club still remains uncertain but he is expected to continue in the heart of Chelsea’s defence as their options are limited.
Since his return from injury, the Blues backline has performed better. Rudiger is one of the key members in the squad and should be able to hold off Liverpool’s dangerous attacking trio.
Alonso’s form in the last few weeks have developed and he seems to be at his best. He needs to contribute at both ends of the pitch.
The Croatian has enjoyed a superb second season at Stamford Bridge and is one of the undisputed starters under Lampard. He needs to do what he does best and help the team cross the line.
The Italian seems to have fallen down the pecking order but with Kante and Gilmour out of the squad, he is likely to retain his spot. He will be key in breaking Liverpool’s attack.
With a goal against United in the FA Cup, his confidence would have surely been boosted. He should be completing the midfield trio and needs to break open the Reds defence to create opportunities for the forwards.
The 31-year-old is one of the most improved players in the squad. He has bagged 4 goals and 2 assists since the restart and his experience will play a key role against Jurgen Klopp’s men.
The USA international has peaked at the right time for Chelsea and is one of the brightest spots in the team. His creativity will be depended upon by his team.
The World Cup winner has found favour in the eyes of his manager with some eye-catching displays. With 3 goals in his last 4 league games, he should be given the nod ahead of Tammy Abraham.
