Defenders:
The most prominent aspect of Chelsea’s title winning credentials comes from their tight defense at the back. With a high line well effective this season, John Terry and Gary Cahill have moved in tandem, cohesively forming a strong unit. Crystal Palace’s attacking abilities have a dearth of the out and out striker and with Marouane Chamakh and Dwight Gayle out of the clash, the Eagles will find it hard breaking the away side’s resilience at the back. Branislav Ivanovic will start in the right back slot while the brilliant and ever consistent Cesar Azpilicueta will don the left back role, continuing to impress and also keeping Ashley Cole out from the side.
Midfield:
Frank Lampard and Nemanja Matic will have to hold fort in midfield as Ramires is suspended having picked up a straight red card and serves the second of his three match suspension. Lampard, having sat out against Arsenal is expected to start this one. The English star will to move forward with his attacking abilities joining the attacking triumvirate up front. Oscar will start in his favourite number ten position while Andre Schurrle, who was terrific against Arsenal should get the nod over Willian, the latter who is back after serving his suspension. The ever dazzling and brilliant Eden Hazard will start on the left and will look to cause menace in the opposition defense.