Leicester City travel to the home of the champions to face them in the Premier League on Saturday. Claude Puel’s men will go into this game with their heads up and full of confidence as they took Huddersfield Town to the cleaners last time out, on New Years’ day. They came into their previous game having been winless in the preceding five but managed to emerge out victorious.
However, Chelsea have been one of the deadliest opponents because, in their last 15 meetings, the Blues have lost only twice and have dropped points only on three occasions. Another good news for the Foxes is that Liverpool’s move for their star player Riyad Mahrez has been ruled out. It will be a feisty battle if the ex-champions get out of the blocks quickly, release the likes of Okazaki and Mahrez and get involved when on the ball.
Danny Simpson is out for a month while Wes Morgan still remains sidelined because he limped off in the victory against the Terriers. Robert Huth is fighting his way back from an ankle injury but this game has come too soon for his liking.
The manager has said that he will not rush Vardy into any game. At this moment, it’s not very good for the English forward as he is suffering from a groin issue. Ben Chilwell was suffering an illness but could mostly make it to the squad.
Claude Puel rested the likes of Mahrez, Albrighton, Okazaki and Fuchs for their FA Cup game which simply means they are sure starters here. He could revert to the 4-4-2 system and play two in the middle, instead of three. Leicester will be more than happy to sit back, let Chelsea have it and then hit them on the break.
Schmeichel has come to the Foxes’ rescue many a time and will start in goal. He has made some outstanding stops in the recent past.
Amartey looks much more confident now in this right-back role. He defends neatly and focuses more on sitting back and avoiding the fuss.
Maguire has been in top form this season and is solid at the back. He also has the passing instinct.
In Wes Morgan’s absence, the task is on his shoulders to defend hard and strong. Dragovic has been very sound and complete in the last two games at the back.
The left-back has one of the best deliveries in the league and had a decent outing against Huddersfield. He might not occupy an advanced role on the left flank as much as he did in the previous game but he can certainly produce match-winning crosses.
The Algerian has been at his very best since December and his trickery will be needed this game too.
Ndidi was given some rest and will return, to avoid and break Chelsea attacks, use his strength and keep the opposition midfield quiet by closing in on them.
Silva had a decent outing in the FA Cup and might get his first start in the PL, at the heart of midfield.
Albrighton will play down the left and occasionally make the odd run into the box. He will be the most important player to initiate counter-attacks and play early passes to the front men.
Okazaki’s dribbling, strength and work rate should be seen right in behind the striker. The Japanese attacker carries the play forward and provides a lot to the game.
The ex-Manchester City forward could get his chance as Slimani has played two games in quick succession. Iheanacho is a fine poacher and finishes excellently.
The Premier League run-in, the backend of the title race for Manchester City sees them…
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…