Chelsea will take on Watford FC on Monday night in the penultimate game of their title winning Premier League campaign at the Stamford Bridge.
The Blues sealed the title with a 1-0 win over West Bromwich Albion on Friday night at the Hawthorns and will be in for a heroes welcome to the home stadium as they look to finish the season in style. The champions have been brilliant in their first season under the regime of new boss Antonio Conte and will be hoping to celebrate the title with wins in the final two games.
Team News
No injury or suspension concerns for Antonio Conte, but we may see a much-changed line-up take the field.
Here is how Chelsea could line up against the Hornets:
Probable Chelsea Starting XI
Formation: 3-4-3
Manager: Antonio Conte
Thibaut Courtois (GK)
The Belgian has been imperious in goal this season. Will want to add another clean sheet to his tally.
Cesar Azpilicueta (CB)
One of Chelsea’ best players of the season, Azpilicueta has been the unsung hero of the campaign. Will keep his place in the three-man backline.
John Terry (CB)
The captain and club legend will be leaving at the end of the season and now that the title has been secured, should be given a chance to start the final two home games.
Nathan Ake (CB)
The youngster will not get a Premier League winners’ medal considering that he will have made less than five games for the Blues this term. Still should start in place of Gary Cahill.
Ola Aina (RM)
Has fared decently in the few opportunities he has been afforded. May get a run out against the Hornets.
Cesc Fabregas (CM)
Has been instrumental in the last few games for the Blues. Should keep his place in the line-up ahead of N’Golo Kante who recently returned from injury.
Nemanja Matic (CM)
The Serbian has stepped up really well in recent weeks. Should partner Fabregas in midfield.
Marcos Alonso (LM)
The Spaniard has been another success story for the Blues this season. Will start on the left-side on Monday night.
Willian (RW)
The Brazilian has had to play second fiddle to Pedro this season, but may well take the Spaniard’s place in the starting XI against the Hornets.
Michy Batshuayi (ST)
Yet to start a single game in the Premier League, a title winning should earn him a place in Conte’s playing XI on Monday.
Eden Hazard (LW)
The Belgian will keep his place on the left-side of the attacking trident. Will be Chelsea’s biggest threat in attack and will look to exploit a leaky Watford defence.