Chelsea host high-flying Southampton on Sunday afternoon, with the Blues hoping to get back to winning ways after a poor defeat in the Champions League midweek.
Jose Mourinho’s men qualified for the knockout round of Europe’s Premier competition, despite losing to Swiss outfit Basel without registering a single shot at goal. A bizarre night of muted celebration ensued, but a Chelsea win on Sunday at Stamford Bridge will give the home fans something obvious to cheer about.
Possible Chelsea Lineup:
Defence: Chelsea should be unchanged defensively, as with Ashely Cole once more out injured with a recurring rib injury, Azpilicueta should retain the left back role, despite a shaky display against Basel.
Midfield: Mourinho has switched to a 4-3-3 formation in recent weeks, to good effect; and one can expect the same tactics on Sunday. Mikel has, for now, earned himself a starting role in the heart of the midfield; while Lampard and Ramires will continue to flank the Nigerian.
On the back of such a limp defeat in Switzerland, you may see a rare recall for Chelsea favourite Juan Mata in the attacking triumvirate, with Oscar in dire need of a rest. Hazard should continue on the left after a bright cameo midweek.
Forward: Chelsea will welcome back Fernando Torres into the fold after making a substitute appearance against Basel. The Spaniard has recovered from a muscle injury, and will take the place of Samuel Eto’o, who suffered a leg injury in the midweek loss.
Prediction: 1-0
A solid display, but an unconvincing scoreline could be on the cards in the weekend; but the three valuable points will bring Jose Mourinho’s side ever closer to the top.
Do you agree with our line-up? Let us know below…
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