Having put in yet another commanding performance in the previous weekend at home to Swansea, Antonio Conte’s Chelsea face a tricky trip to the Olympic Stadium this weekend to face Slave Bilic’s side that has now taken 5 points from their last three games in the league. In what will be a London derby, West Ham United take on the table toppers Chelsea and have a chance of throwing this title race wide open. However, Conte’s side are in tremendous form and will do everything they can to take three points away. The Hammers were held by the Hornets in the previous round but Bilic will be more than happy to take a similar result from this game.
Predicted Chelsea line-up to face West Ham:
Team News:
The Chelsea boss has a fully-fit squad to chose from and can go with any XI he wants for this tie.
Formation: 3-4-3
Thibaut Courtois (GK):
Courtois is the first choice shot-stopper for Chelsea and should keep his place in the side for this tie.
Cesar Azpilicueta (CB):
The Spaniard has been one of the most consistent players in the league in his position and Conte should stick with him at the back for Chelsea
David Luiz (CB):
Though had a less than impressive game against Swansea, Luiz is the backbone of the defense for Chelsea and will hope to have a decent game.
Gary Cahill (CB):
The experienced centre back will have his work cut out against the likes of Antonio and Snodgrass in this crunch tie away from home.
Victor Moses (RM):
Having just signed a new deal this week, Moses will be high on confidence and will hope to help his side to a comfortable victory.
Nemanja Matic (CM):
Though he was on the bench in the previous round game, he adds mettle to the midfield for Chelsea and should replace Fabregas for this tie.
N’Golo Kante (CM):
Kante is the heartbeat of the Chelsea midfield and has been the best player in the league in his position. West Ham will have to contend with him to try and get close to the Chelsea goal.
Marcos Alonso (LM):
The Italian has gone about his work quietly this season and Conte will hope that he maintains his level against West Ham.
Pedro (RW):
After a match winning performance against Swansea, Pedro should keep his place in the side on the right-wing in this derby.
Eden Hazard (LW):
The Belgian play maker was unplayable in his previous game and West Ham will hope that he has an off day to stand a chance at at least a point from this game.
Diego Costa (ST):
Costa was back among the goals last week and Chelsea will hope that their top goal scorer this season has a similar impact on the game at the Olympic Stadium this week.