After enduring the first League loss against Swansea City under Hiddink’s leadership, Chelsea host Man City in an all-important clash for a place as high as possible for both the clubs. Last season these two were fighting for the title and now scrapping for a place in the European competitions. Chelsea players are going all guns blazing to impress the new manager, Antonio Conte before his regime starts.
Man City are on a high after beating PSG in the quarters of the Champions League and reaching the semis for the first time in the club’s history. They will be tired after the tough Clash against the Parisians and Pellegrini’s men cannot be complacent at all as they are struggling in the league to guarantee a top four spot. City are without David Silva, Raheem Sterling and Vincent Kompany but with De Bruyne back, their lineup looks powerful again.
The good news for the blues is that Diego Costa has returned from suspension and Eden Hazard is back in training but won’t be risked against City. Terry, Zouma and Remy remain the long term absentees. Let’s take a look at the predicted lineup against Man City :
Goalkeeper : Thibaut Courtois
After a disappointing loss in which Begovic started, Courtois look set to retain his place between the posts.
Right back : Cesar Azpilicueta
The ever consistent defender has been one of the very few shining lights this season, and will start against the citizens.
Centre back : Gary Cahill
With Zouma and Terry injured, and Miazga definitely not going to put on the line against such a mighty opponent, Cahill is assured of a start.
Centre back : Branislas Ivanovic
With reports coming of the Serbian being offloaded in the summer, he has to prove his detractors wrong with each game passing by.
Left back : Baba Rehman
The youngster looks a promising talent and will have to be at his best against the likes of Nasri and De Bruyne.
Centre midfield : John Obi Mikel
Mikel has got a new lease of life under Hiddink and will have to be on his toes all the time to stop City’s attacks.
Centre midfield : Cesc Fabregas
Spaniard’s performances have improved off late and will enjoy a free role against Pellegrini’s men.
Right wing : Willian
After missing last two matches through injury, the Brazilian will slot into the lineup and look to provide some much needed attacking thrust.
No.10 : Ruben Loftus-Cheek
The youngster has played at the no.10 position for the last couple of games and will continue to maintain his place in the side.
Left wing : Pedro
Scored a much needed brace and is looking confident with each game passing by.
Striker : Diego Costa
Costa will replace Pato as the striker and look to continue his goalscoring form.