Midfielders:
Central Midfield: Matic
Matic is the one who is going to play the anchor role in the double pivot. He will have his hands full with Yaya Toure once again and it would be one hell of a battle to watch. Matic had the upper hand last time they met, but the Ivorian is well capable of inflicting the same on the Serbian enforcer.
Central Midfield: Ramires
The Brazilian is likely to play next to Matic in the pivot role to offer extra protection to Chelsea’s back four which can be exposed to City’s strong attacking midfield. Ramires’ workrate and energy has always been key to Chelsea’s style in away games. He also has immense pace for counter attacks.
Central Attacking Midfield: Fabregas
Cesc Fabregas is likely to start behind the striker, playing as the trequartista. He is likely to be the guy who will run the play for the Blues. He would be well accompanied by some of the best players in the league both in his as well as the opposition team. He’ll be closely marked by Fernandinho.
Right Midfield: Oscar
Oscar didn’t play from the start against Schalke, so he is likely to get a nod here. He is very versatile and can play wide or central. His partnership with Fabregas and versatility has helped Mourinho form various tactics in mind. They both can switch positions among themselves or also with Ramires.
Left Midfield: Hazard
He has been the real showman with his dribbling and pace. He is likely to be the tormentor for Pablo Zabaleta once again. Hazard is no more simply raw, as he now has the maturity and experience to play better in the league. He is going to be a constant menace to the defence and would be a key provider to Costa and a key combiner for Fabregas.
Striker: Costa
Who else but him? If Chelsea have a fit squad, Costa is certain to start. Though he is not 100 percent fit, he is still very much available for this match and would be resting when Chelsea play Bolton in the Capital One Cup. Costa has scored 7 already in the league and Chelsea will hope he adds a few more in the weekend.
