Chelsea will host Crystal Palace on Saturday as they look to build on their victory against West Brom last weekend. Having endured a poor start to the season last week’s victory helped to relieve a lot of growing anxiety in the Blues camp. Former FC Barcelona forward Pedro starred in his first game for José Mourinho, opening the scoring inside 20 minutes and then assisted another before the half time whistle.
Crystal Palace recorded their second victory of the season last weekend after defeating Aston Villa 2-1 at the Selhurst Park. Manager Alan Pardew will be looking for an upset at Stamford Bridge, hence continuing the good start to the campaign.
Thibaut Courtois
Having made a successful return to the Chelsea starting line-up last week after serving out his suspension, Courtois is almost a 100% guarantee starter. Begovic did well in the time he had on the pitch but remain a second choice keeper till Courtois is fit.
Branislav Ivanovic
Ivanovic has been a major disappointment this season with three very poor performances on the trot but with John Terry suspended for this match, Mourinho will need his experienced full back to lead the line. He desperately requires a good performance in order to win back the confidence of the manager.
Cesar Azpilicueta
Surprisingly the only consistent performer in that Chelsea back line and looks like one of the sure starters right now. His defensive awareness combined with his willingness to join the attack makes him a valuable asset.
Kurt Zouma
Was selected ahead of Cahill last week in the starting eleven and did well under pressure. His mobility and physical presence are key to Chelsea’s plans. Will be hoping for a good performance which can catch the manager’s eye.
Gary Cahill
Was demoted to the bench last week after a dismal performance against Manchester City but will return to the starting XI due to John Terry’s suspension. Needs to show some solidity if he doesn’t wish to be on the bench once Terry returns.
Nemanja Matic
Another player who has struggled to find any sort of form this season after a solid last season. Nothing seems to working for him right now, has been guilty of committing some rash challenges in the last few games but has sometime to prove himself before the managers starts to think about replacing him.
Cesc Fabregas
After a disappointing couple of matches, he seems to be getting back into his groove on the evidence of his performance against West Brom. His partnership with Hazard and Pedro will be vital for Chelsea this season if they are to retain the title.
Willian
There are doubts regarding the availability of Oscar, in which Willian will start in the centre of the midfield. Needs to contribute more to the attacking dimension of the team if he wants to keep Oscar out of the starting XI for a longer duration.
Hazard
Mourinho will be happy at how well Hazard combined with Pedro against West Brom. He was their creative force last season and will look to drive his team this season as well. A player who is guaranteed a starting berth.
Pedro
What a dream debut it was Pedro against West Brom, he scored his first goal in a Chelsea shirt just before the 20th minute and followed it up with an assist for Costa. His excellent positional play and understanding with his new teammates will be a huge benefit for Chelsea in the coming months.
Diego Costa
Opened his account for the 2015-2016 season last weekend, with him there is only one question that matter; whether he is fit or not? If fit he plays its that simple. Chelsea need him firing as soon as possible if they are to have any hope of defending their title.
