Antonio Conte’s Chelsea were dealt a big blow this week as local rivals Tottenham Hotspur managed to put them to the sword, to end a 12 game unbeaten streak for the Blues in the Premier League this season. The manager will hope that his team can get back to winning ways quickly but will now have to turn his attention towards the domestic cups in England.
The Italian manager will get the taste of the English domestic cup competition, the FA Cup, as Chelsea welcome Peterborough to the Stamford Bridge for the FA Cup third round fixture on Sunday. Though Chelsea are not active in any other competition, Conte will look to rotate his squad and save the legs of some of his important players.
He will, however, go all out for a victory and here is the predicted lineup that he might field for this game.
Team News:
Skipper John Terry is out injured while John Obi Mikel is on his way to China and will not play a role in this game. Marko van Ginkel remains the only other issue but he is also expected to make the matchday squad for this game.
Expected Lineup (3-4-3):
Aasmir Begovic:
With Courtois needing some rest, Begovic, the second choice shot stopper at the club, should get back into the first team for this clash.
Cesar Azpilicueta:
The Spaniard has been sublime at the back for Conte this season and he will have to stay strong and give the visitors no chance in front of goal.
Branislav Ivanovic:
Coming back into the action after a long time, Ivanovic, who is not in the plans of the manager, will hope to put in a good performance and win his manager’s trust.
Kurt Zouma:
Having last played a game almost a year ago, Zouma is now back to full fitness and is ready to go and this FA Cup tie might be the perfect time to give him a chance.
Ola Aina:
The young right back was exceptional in the previous outing in the League Cup and he should keep his place in the side for this FA Cup clash.
Ruben Loftus-Cheek:
The English midfielder is wanted by a few clubs in England on loan this month but Conte should stick with him to start this game against Peterborough.
Nathaniel Chalobah:
Another fringe player in the squad who might leave this month, Chalobah has been decent when called upon and should get a place in the side for this game.
Marcos Alonso:
The Italian full-back has been superb in his position for Chelsea and he should keep his place in the side for this game on Sunday.
Pedro:
The Brazilian has been in sublime form for Chelsea this season and is one of the most important players for the side in this FA Cup game.
Cesc Fabregas:
The Spanish midfielder is not the first choice player for Conte this season but he should get a chance to start in an attacking midfield role against Peterborough.
Michy Batshuayi:
Though wanted by clubs on loan, Batshuayi would want to prove himself to his manager and he will get his chance to do so in this game.