Predicted Chelsea XI to face Sevilla in the Champions League
After sealing a knockout berth, Chelsea face Sevilla in a 5th round group stage game in the Champions League. The Blues have won 3 of their games so far in the group stages. They did however stumble to a stalemate against Spurs at the weekend.
Sevilla have also qualified for the knockouts, just like Chelsea, with 3 wins and a draw. With both teams already qualified, topping the group will now become important. A cagey affair can be expected from these two.
Team News
Chelsea can say that they have a clean bill of health with just Ben Chilwell said to be a minor doubt. But he is unlikely to be risked. Few changes from the weekend can be expected with qualification already guaranteed. But with the top spot still at stake, most of the regulars could feature.
Probable Chelsea XI
Formation: 4-3-3
Edouard Mendy (GK)
5 clean sheets in 6 league games and Mendy is already proving his worth. Reliable since day one, the custodian keeps his place rightfully.
Cesar Azpilicueta (RB)
The veteran Spaniard should get the nod for this one as James could be given some rest.
Antonio Rudiger (CB)
Another player who could come back to the starting XI, Rudiger might replace Thiago Silva.
Kurt Zouma (CB)
Zouma has matured a lot this season and keeps his starting spot for the time being.
Ben Chilwell (LB)
While there are chances he might not be risked, Lampard could well be forced to throw him on, with Emerson and Alonso on the fringes.
N’Golo Kante (DM)
The diminutive destroyer just keeps doing his job quietly as Chelsea keep getting the good results.
Kai Havertz (CAM)
Returned to the squad in the last few games and could be pushing for a start in this one to get back some form.
Mason Mount (CM)
Mount’s dedication cannot be doubted as he has been running the show from midfield this season.
Hakim Ziyech (RW)
Likely to be afforded another start despite having a quiet game against Spurs.
Timo Werner (ST)
A hot and cold season for the former Leipzig man. Needs to get back to his goalscoring form.
Christian Pulisic (LW)
Another player who will be pushing for a start after just a cameo off the bench in the last game.
