Predicted 4-3-3 Chelsea XI to face Krasnodar in the Champions League
Chelsea take on Kuban Krasnodar in the final group game of Group E in the Champions League. There is no other way to frame it but this could basically be a dead rubber as Chelsea are set to finish as group winners and Sevilla taking second spot. Only a win for Rennes and loss for Krasnodar can change their positions.
The Blues are in good form, winning four of their last five. On the other hand, Krasnodar are also in good form, winning both of their last 2 games. The last time these two sides met, Chelsea won 4-0. It is hard to see Chelsea not wrapping up the group stage with another win.
Team News
While Chelsea had pretty much their entire team fit prior to the Leeds clash, they now have Hakim Ziyech’s hamstring injury to deal with. He is ruled out for this game.
Probable Chelsea XI
Formation: 4-3-3
Kepa (GK)
The much maligned Spaniard could finally get a game after falling down the pecking order this season due to Edouard Mendy.
Cesar Azpilicueta (RB)
Much like the last European game, the veteran defender should be back in his spot.
Antonio Rudiger (CB)
Featuring predominantly in the Champions League, Rudiger makes the cut to rotate Thiago Silva.
Andreas Christensen (CB)
The Dane has slipped to the fringes this season and could get some valuable minutes here.
Emerson Palmieri (LB)
Another rotation, Emerson could be given this game in place of Chilwell.
Jorginho (DM)
While Jorginho started the season well, he has since lost his place in the starting XI.
Matteo Kovacic (CM)
Has been a fantastic operator in midfield through this season and will look to continue the same.
Kai Havertz (CM)
Should get another start to get back some form after some sub-par showings since his return.
Callum Hudson-Odoi (RW)
With Ziyech out for the time being, the academy graduate could get an extended run in the team.
Olivier Giroud (ST)
The former Arsenal man has been in splendid form with 5 goals in his last 2 games.
Christian Pulisic (LW)
Sealed the win against Leeds with his first goal since returning from injury. Will look to get some game time to regain his sharpness.
