Predicted Chelsea Lineup vs Manchester City
FA Cup returns this weekend as Chelsea and Manchester City face off in the biggest tie in the fifth round. Chelsea come into this match after losing their 1st leg match 2-1 against PSG in the Champions League on Tuesday. However domestically the blues have been in top form since the departure of Jose Mourinho and are unbeaten in the last 12 matches. City on the other hand, is going through a rough patch with 2 defeats on the bounce against fellow title chasers in the form of Tottenham and Leicester City. A positive result this weekend will fuel the belief that Chelsea can still salvage something from a disappointing season.
Goalkeeper: Thibaut Courtois
Up against such a formidable opposition, Hiddink will surely go with Courtois for this one. The Belgian has done well since he returned from his injury and should stay in the side if fit.
Defenders: Baba Rahman, Gary Cahill, Ivanovic and Cesar Azpilicueta
With Kurt Zouma out for the rest of the season and Terry still doubtful after suffering an injury recently, the centre back pairing might consist of Cahill and Ivanovic. For the English star, this is a perfect opportunity to cement his place in the team in the absence regular first team centre backs. Ivanovic had a horror of a game against City last time around and will look for a better performance this time around. Azpilicueta should start on the right with summer signing Rahman on the left. This is the perfect chance for Baba to give his manager some selection headaches.
Midfielder: Jon Obi-Mikel, Cesc Fabregas, Matic, Willian and Pedro Rodriguez
Matic missed the Champions League encounter with a suspension but should return to the match day squad against City. Mikel on the other hand was heavily involved against PSG on Tuesday night, where a deflection from him opened the scoring for the home side before he redeemed himself by scoring the equalizer late in the first half. Fabregas has been in good form of late and his partnership with Costa is improving day by day. The flanks will be occupied by Pedro on one side and Willian on the other. The Brazilian has been the player of the season for the Blues by far and deserves a starting place.
Striker: Diego Costa
Costa has improved significantly since the arrival of Hiddink and will be trusted with the job to break down Kompany and Otamendi on Sunday. His aggressive approach is often uncomforting for the opposition defenders. His battle with Kompany will especially be exciting.