Predicted Chelsea line-up to face Crystal Palace in the Premier League
Chelsea returned to winning ways against Watford and will be aiming to keep that going when they face London rivals Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park this Sunday. Eden Hazard scored a brace to help Maurizio Sarri’s men to get 3 points at Vicarage Road. Similar things can be expected to happen this weekend as well.
The Blues are up against a Palace team who are high on confidence at the moment. They defeated Manchester City at the Etihad last week and were unlucky not to get a win against Cardiff City on Boxing Day. Hence, expect a close London derby with the home team having a chance to cause an upset.
Team News
Alvaro Morata has a knee issue and would be out for this game. Pedro and Callum Hudson-Odoi suffered injuries against Watford and are expected to be out for this weekend. Andreas Christensen is also suffering from an injury that would keep him out of the squad for this game.
Probable Chelsea XI
Formation: 4-3-3
Manager: Maurizio Sarri
Kepa Arrizabalaga (GK)
The Spaniard starts every league game for the Blues. He has been good with the ball at his feet and has made some good saves.
Cesar Azpilicueta (RB)
Azpilicueta is an important player for Sarri’s men at right-back. He starts every league game.
Antonio Rudiger (CB)
The German has had a good season alongside David Luiz in central defence. He starts unless there is an injury issue.
David Luiz (CB)
After the horrific game against Spurs, Luiz has done well in the past few games. His partnership with Rudiger is a flourishing one.
Marcos Alonso (LB)
He has been defensively susceptible at times but his attacking forays up the pitch would be key in a game such as this.
Jorginho (CDM)
Jorginho is the headmaster of the system that Sarri likes to play. As a result, the manager’s most preferred player starts most of the games.
N’Golo Kante (RCM)
The Frenchman hasn’t been at his best in a slightly advanced midfield role but he always gives his 100% for the team. His effort and commitment is a necessity in the midfield.
Ross Barkley (LCM)
Mateo Kovacic played the last game against Watford, hence, expect Barkley to get the nod for the Palace clash.
Willian (RW)
With Pedro and Hudson-Odoi out for this game, Willian could switch to the right flank.
Eden Hazard (False-9)
Chelsea have close to no strikers who can score goals, meaning Hazard has led the line in the last few games. The Belgian has done well there in all honesty.
Ruben Loftus-Cheek (LW)
With Pedro and Hudson-Odoi out, we may see Loftus-Cheek start in an advanced attacking role.
