The stalemate at Anfield did not make much a difference for Chelsea at the top of the table as clubs around them also dropped points in the previous round of the competition.
However, Antonio Conte’s side has a great chance of moving way clear of their opponents this weekend when they welcome fellow title challengers Arsenal to the Stamford Bridge. Wenger’s side was put to the sword by the Hornets at the Emirates and they will have to bounce back to have a shot at the Premier League title. But Chelsea, in their current form, playing at home, are expected to give Arsenal back to back losses and send them down the points table this weekend. Conte is expected to play his best side for this game and here is the predicted lineup that he might field.
Team News:
Antonio Conte revealed in his press conference before this game that David Luiz and Eden Hazard are carrying knocks and have been playing through pain to keep their title run going. They remain the only injury concerns for Conte ahead of this tie and will be assessed before the game.
Expected lineup (3-4-3):
Thibaut Courtois:
Though linked with an exit recently, Courtois is the first choice shot-stopper for Antonio Conte in this season for Chelsea.
Cesar Azpilicueta:
One of the most consistent defenders in the league, Azpilicueta, is the first choice in his position for Conte this season.
David Luiz:
After a man of the match performance at Anfield, Luiz, will not let a small niggle let him down and should star this game, in spite of his knee issues.
Gary Cahill:
The English defender has done exactly what he is asked to by Conte and has been solid at the back, and should keep his place in the side for this game.
Victor Moses:
The versatile winger was pushed back by Liverpool at Anfield and Arsenal should deploy a similar tactic if they are to get anything from this game.
N Golo Kante:
The French midfielder was immense in the previous round and he will have to take care of the like of Mesut Ozil on the night against Arsenal.
Cesc Fabregas:
Though Matic has been decent, Conte will go for the kill in this game and should use Fabregas right from the start to dismantle their local rivals.
Marcos Alonso:
The Italian has settled into his role at the Bridge with ease and is expected to start this game on the left-flank for Chelsea.
Pedro:
The Spaniard only got an appearance from the bench in the previous game but with a slight injury to Hazard, he should come back into the starting XI for this clash.
Willian:
The Brazilian winger also picked up a knock at Anfield but he is back in training and should take the left-flank for this game.
Diego Costa:
Missed a golden opportunity to give his side all three points from Anfield and will hope that he gets another in this crunch game to redeem himself this weekend.
