Chelsea avoided a disastrous EFL Cup defeat against Leicester City with late goals and will hope to continue their run against Arsenal this weekend. This will be Antonio Conte’s first experience of the London Derby and ahead of the kick-off, we take a look at the predicted Chelsea lineup vs Arsenal.
After an impressive start to the season, Conte has seen his side struggle against Swansea and Liverpool which has derailed his season to an extent but a good result against Arsenal could kick start Chelsea’s 2016/17 season.
One player who has been at heart of Chelsea’s team selection conundrum this season is Cesc Fabregas. The Spaniard is yet to cement his place in the starting XI but everytime he comes on to play he makes a mark on the game for Chelsea. And given the game is against Arsenal, one must fancy Fabregas to play a key role against his former side.
Predicted Chelsea lineup vs Arsenal
Unlike the common perception, I am going with Fabregas to start the game against Arsenal from the number 10 role and replace Oscar in the starting XI purely and simply because Chelsea need a passer in their ranks.
With Nemanja Matic and N’Golo Kante at the heart of midfield, Blues look more like a combative side than a football playing team. With Fabregas in the line-up there is a different dimension to Chelsea’s play which can be crucial against the Gunners.
John Terry is another name which will get the heads up later on in the weekend after his ligament injury against Swansea. Chelsea skipper is expected to be fit for the game, however, if that is not the case then David Luiz will be waiting for his opportunity to impress his new manager and the fans by playing in this all-important match up.