The last time Guus Hiddink managed Chelsea, which was also as a caretaker manager, he ended up winning the FA Cup. The Chelsea fans will be hopeful of something similar this time around and the first team they face in their FA Cup journey is Scunthorpe United.
The away side have only lost once in their last seven games but playing against a Chelsea side that actually has gelled together in the last two weeks will be a different test for the team. Scunthorpe had lost the last time they had visited Stamford Bridge and that could well be the outcome unless the away side have other plans.
Chelsea will be without the services of Eden Hazard, the Belgian injured himself in the 3-0 win away at Crystal Palace. With Chelsea looking to get their cup campaign with a win, here is the predicted starting lineup for the Blues.
Asmir Begovic
Thibaut Courtois might deserve a rest and hence Asmir Begovic could get a game against the lower league side.
Branislav Ivanovic
The Serbian has gotten his groove back and should start the game in his favoured right-back spot.
John Terry
The captain of the team should lead his men out in the home game against Scunthorpe and lead them to another win.
Kurt Zouma
With Gary Cahill injured, the French defender is the de-facto choice to partner Terry in the heart of the Chelsea defence.
Baba Rahman
The former Augsburg defender hasn’t had much playing time but should get a chance to show what he can do in the left-back role against Scunthorpe.
Ruben Loftus-Cheek (RLC)
With Cesc Fabregas back, it could still be a bit of time before he starts the game and Guus Hiddink might be tempted to give a chance to one of the young stars in the Chelsea team.
Nemanja Matic
The Serbian should be one of the automatic choices for the Blues and should start in this game against Scunthorpe.
Kenedy
The youngster was one of the more impressive players during Jose Mourinho’s tenure and he could be given a chance to show what he is all about in this rather easy looking tie.
Willian
Willian has been the best player for Chelsea this season and they have to play him to get the best chance of winning the game.
Oscar
The Brazilian had a little spat against Costa but he should start for Chelsea in the FA Cup game.
Diego Costa
Costa seems to have gotten his goal scoring ability back and with Falcao and Remy injured, he should start the game.