Chelsea vs Manchester United: Probable Blues XI for the FA Cup semi-final
Chelsea travel to Old Trafford as they are set to face Manchester United in the semifinals of the FA Cup on Sunday.
Frank Lampard’s men will be entering the game on the back of a narrow 1-0 win against Norwich City. They have been inconsistent in the last few games but will have to best at their best if they are to topple United and get into the finals of the competition.
The Red Devils, on the other hand, have been in sensational form and have also done the double against the Blues in the Premier League. This game will not be easy for Lampard and his side.
Team News
Though most of the main players are available for selection on Tuesday, N’Golo Kante will be a notable absentee. Fikayo Tomori and Marco Van Ginkel are also set to miss the game as they are recovering from their respective injuries. Billy Gilmour, who was forced out of the game against Sheffield, is expected not to return until the season ends.
Probable Chelsea XI
Formation: 4-3-3
Kepa Arrizabalaga (GK)
The Spaniard has not been in the best of forms this season but he is expected to start. He is the first choice shot-stopper and should manage to keep it tight in goal.
Reece James (RB)
The youngster came on as a substitute in the last outing. But he should be given the nod ahead of Cesar Azpilicueta in this crucial fixture.
Kurt Zouma (CB)
The Frenchman hasn’t been convincing throughout the season. He needs to be at his best to claim the spot for himself under Lampard.
Antonio Rudiger (CB)
Rudiger seems to be the only defender in some form for Chelsea. He should be able to deal with the threat of Anthony Martial.
Marcos Alonso (LB)
The former Real Madrid man should be given a start as he looked to be the only player to give his 100% in the game against Sheffield United, a game which the Blues lost badly. He will be expected to thrive at both ends of the pitch.
Jorginho (CDM)
With N’Golo Kante injured, the Italian is expected to start as he did against Norwich. He will be key in breaking United’s attacks and should be able to control the Blues’ game in the middle of the park.
Matteo Kovacic (CM)
The Croatian missed a few games due to injury and returned to the starting XI against the Canaries. He has been in good form this season and is one of the best midfielders in the side.
Mason Mount (CM)
Mount has established himself as a key figure under Lampard but was given a rest on Tuesday. he will be key in breaking open the opponent’s defence.
Willian (RW)
He is one of Chelsea’s best players since the restart, scoring 5 goals in the last 6 games. The Brazilian should start ahead of the others.
Christian Pulisic (LW)
The former Borussia Dortmund man has been in sensational form in recent weeks. He seems to be the only creative spark in the team and should be able to get his team across the line.
Read more
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Tammy Abraham (ST)
The English striker is yet to find his goalscoring touch. He has 14 goals to his name this season and should lead the line. He should manage to get his name on the scoresheet.
