Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel will undoubtedly be looking for a strong performance in this week’s Champions League clash with Zenit St Petersburg.
Not only will the Stamford Bridge side be looking to bounce back from their 3-2 defeat to West Ham at the weekend, but they’ll also need to match Juventus’ result in the group’s other game to ensure top spot.
As such, Tuchel is unlikely to deviate too much from his strongest starting XI if at all possible.
In defence, Tuchel is likely to turn to goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga, following Edouard Mendy’s clanger against West Ham. In front of the Spaniard will be a back three of Cesar Azplilicueta, Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen.
In midfield, we’re likely to see Callum Hudson-Odoi take up his role as left wing-back, with Reece James in his typical position on the right. Injuries to Jorginho, N’Golo Kante and Mateo Kovacic may mean a rare start for Saul Niguez alongside Ruben Loftus-Cheek.
Up front, it seems more than likely that Tuchel will stick with Romelu Lukaku as his lone striker, with Hakim Ziyech and Mason Mount playing off him in No.10 roles for the team.