Strongest Chelsea Lineup To Face Arsenal: Pedro To Start Ahead Of Hazard

Chelsea Predicted Lineup vs Arsenal

The 23^rd game of the season for Arsenal sees them host foes Chelsea in a London derby but this derby will have a different feel to it. Chelsea, who normally are challenging for a top four position at the very least find themselves in 14^th place and even the interim manager had stated that the Blues aren’t clear of danger from the bottom clubs in the league.

Chelsea in their last game had drawn 3-3 with Everton, needing a controversial goal from John Terry in the 97^th minute of stoppage time to rescue a point and it should the frailties of the team which are currently Premier League champions.

Arsenal will be in a buoyant mood and will also be looking to inflict more damage on the Blues. Revenge will be on the minds of the Gunners as they had lost the previous meeting between the clubs, with Diego Costa doing a lot of damage and playing an instrumental role in getting Paulista sent off.

How times have changed in the coming months, Chelsea haven’t found any form this season while Arsenal are going from strength to strength. The Blues should have Eden Hazard back to their first team as he has returned to training and Diego Costa is fit to be unleashed on Arsenal.

We predict the starting lineup for the Blues as they look to get a much needed big result this season.

Thibaut Courtois

Courtois conceded thrice against Everton but he is Chelsea’s best goalkeeper and must start against the Gunners and prove just why Petr Cech was let go by Arsenal.

Branislav Ivanovic

The Serbian got a contract extension even though he hasn’t been at his best this season, he will have a tough time against Campbell or Sanchez but he has to be smart about how he takes on the Arsenal wingers.

Kurt Zouma

It was a toss-up between Cahill and Zouma and the French defender just about shades it when it comes to partnering John Terry.

John Terry

The captain scored an important goal against Everton but he would have to be at his best in defending against a rampant Arsenal side which will be sensing blood against Chelsea.

Cesar Azpilicueta

Cesar is the first choice left-back for the Blues and with Baba Rahman not getting a look in, the Spaniard would start for Chelsea in this crunch tie.

Cesc Fabregas

Fabregas’ career at Chelsea seems to be taking a nose dive but a game against his former team could rev his engine up and help him put in a classy performance.

Nemanja Matic

Nemanja Matic has been just one of a number of players who have had poor seasons for the Blues and really needs to put in a great performance for Guus Hiddink and the Chelsea team.

Willian

If Chelsea are to win this game, Willian will be the key. The Brazilian has been exceptional for the Blues this season and could well be the difference with his attacking and defensive work.

Pedro

The Spaniard hasn’t set the world alight this season after his transfer from Barcelona but should be in the team over Hazard, who recently recovered from an injury.

Oscar

Another player who has had a range of patchy performances for the Blues, Oscar needs to step-up big time if they are to do well.

Diego Costa

Diego Costa will have fond memories of the reverse fixture this season and will hope to have a more positive impact this time around as he tries to rally his team towards a win.