Chelsea boss Frank Lampard (Getty Images)
Chelsea sealed qualification to the knockout rounds of the UEFA Champions League with a 2-1 victory over LOSC Lille on Matchday 6, thanks to goals from Tammy Abraham and Cesar Azpilicueta.
Frank Lampard’s men now turn their attention back to the Premier League, where they play host to Bournemouth on Saturday, and the Blues will be the outright favourties to come away with all three points against the Cherries.
Currently placed 4th in the standings, Chelsea will be keen to bounce back following a 3-1 defeat against Everton last weekend, while Bournemouth could have their work cut out in preventing a sixth straight defeat in the Premier League.
Fikayo Tomori is struggling with a groin problem and is doubtful to play a part on Saturday after missing the Champions League tie against Lille, while Olivier Giroud also has an ankle issue.
Ruben Loftus-Cheek continues to be on the sidelines with a long-term calf injury.
The Spaniard has always been the undisputed first-choice between the sticks for the Blues over the past eighteen months and he is expected to continue.
The academy graduate didn’t enter the field of play against Lille but he has started and impressed in the last few Premier League games at right-back.
The German put in a commanding performance against Lille in what was his first game for the club since September and there is no reason why he shouldn’t retain his spot in the eleven.
The Frenchman looked comfortable alongside Rudiger at the heart of the defence in the Champions League on Tuesday and Lampard has backed him with regular starts this season.
The veteran played in his usual right-back role against Lille but he has been used on the left-hand side of the pitch by Lampard for the Premier League games in recent times and that could continue.
He continues to be one of the first names on the manager’s team sheet and should once again find himself among the starters on Saturday.
The World Cup winner bounced back with a fantastic all-round display against Lille following a disappointing performance against Everton last week and he is once again going to be a key player this weekend.
The Brazilian looked sharp and energetic in the midweek game and he has been one of Lampard’s trusted lieutenants in the final third.
The former Dortmund man has been instrumental for the Blues with his creativity up top and a lot will depend on him when they play host to Bournemouth.
The youngster only played a cameo off the bench in the Champions League tie but he could return to the eleven if Lampard switches back to a 4-2-3-1 system.
The homegrown hitman has already netted 13 goals in all competitions this season and he will be looking to add to that tally against Bournemouth on Saturday.