Premier League defending champions Chelsea will welcome Hull City to Stamford Bridge on Friday for the next round of their FA Cup journey. They come into this game after a much-needed win against West Bromwich Albion. Moving forward in the FA Cup will be a top priority for the Blues and they will be looking to ensure the visitors do not cause much trouble.
Hull City have not enjoyed the best of fortunes in the Championship this season and they are sitting merely one point ahead of the dreaded relegation zone. However, they are likely to travel to Stamford Bridge looking for a positive result and it will be interesting to see how this pans out.
Marcos Alonso is unlikely to feature after twisting his ankle in the game against the Baggies and as per early team news, Antonio Conte has hinted that Emerson Palmieri could start in his place. Ross Barkley continues to be a doubtful figure and might not feature in this one. Meanwhile, Ethan Ampadu is expected to feature.
Caballero has shown encouraging signs in goal for Chelsea this season and he should take up his usual role against Hull City.
Regardless of how sour his relationship with Conte is, the manager will need Luiz’s services on Friday and the solid centre-back should start.
Azpilicueta has been a consistent figure for Chelsea at the back and he is expected to essay his usual role in the starting lineup on Friday.
Conte could rest Andreas Christensen for this game, thus providing scope for Cahill to be included. His experience and composure will prove to be crucial for the Blues.
Zappacosta’s lively runs up and down the right-hand side will be important for Chelsea to establish solid cover and he should start against Hull City.
With Alonso expected to be out, Palmieri might receive his first Chelsea start after waiting for quite some time. He boasts of excellent ball control and defensive capabilities and the fans will be quite eager to watch him in action.
Bakayoko might not be a fan favourite at present but Conte might deploy him in his usual role and the player will have quite a task at hand.
To allow some rest to N’golo Kante, Conte might bring in Drinkwater. He is yet to truly make a mark for the Blues and this could be his big chance.
Pedro’s pace and creativity have proven to be quite lethal in the past and the player will be key for Chelsea to break down Hull’s defence.
Conte might rest Hazard for this clash, meaning Willian might deputise for him in this role. Known for his sublime passes and dribbling, the attacker will need to be at his best on Friday.
Morata will be looking to get his name on the scoresheet and Conte is expected to start him after Olivier Giroud received stitches for a head injury he sustained during the game against West Brom.
Everton is having a bad season so far, from their poor form in the league…
Communication is the heartbeat of any successful soccer team. On the field, amidst the flurry…
In the annals of football history, few names evoke as much reverence and admiration as…
Are you new to the world of football betting and would you like to take…
If you are into sports betting, staying ahead of the game is crucial. One way…
I have prepared some interesting and fun football facts for you, perfect for those who love the thrill of discovery almost as much as the excitement found at https://www.staycasino.com/. Like the unpredictable nature of casino games, these facts will surprise and intrigue you with unexpected twists and turns in the world of football. Here is the complete list of 40 interesting and fun facts about football. What are the most interesting facts about football? Football was invented in Italy, Messi is the highest-paid athlete, and the fastest a player has been sent off is 0 seconds! Stay ahead with these facts and impress with your knowledge. This collection contains many football facts that will surprise you. Tell your friends new facts they don't know. Interesting Facts About Football Every football fan should know these facts. You can also surprise your children with what they don't know! When was football invented? Modern football originated from the Florentine game of Calcio Fiorentino, played in the 14th …