Chelsea are riding high heading into the festive period, extending their unbeaten Premier League run since their last defeat at Anfield on October 20. The Blues recently secured an emphatic 3-0 win over Aston Villa, putting them level on points with second-placed Arsenal.
Manager Enzo Maresca’s tactical flexibility has been pivotal to Chelsea’s resurgence, and his side is expected to dominate a weakened Southampton at St Mary’s on Wednesday night. Here’s a look at the predicted lineup.
Chelsea Predicted XI (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper
- Robert Sanchez
Sanchez has been a reliable presence between the sticks and is expected to retain his place as Chelsea’s first-choice goalkeeper.
Defenders
- RB: Malo Gusto
With Reece James sidelined and Moises Caicedo used as an inverted right-back against Villa, Gusto could reclaim his spot in the lineup for midweek action. - CB: Tosin Adarabioyo
Wesley Fofana’s latest injury setback opens the door for Adarabioyo, who is likely to feature alongside a left-footed partner for balance. - CB: Levi Colwill
A regular starter this season, Colwill will need to adjust to a new centre-back partnership in Fofana’s absence. - LB: Marc Cucurella
Cucurella has shown consistency under Maresca, making him the preferred choice at left-back despite promising performances from Renato Veiga in European fixtures.
Midfielders
- CM: Moises Caicedo
Caicedo’s adaptability was on display against Villa, freeing up Enzo Fernandez with his inverted role. His inclusion remains critical to Chelsea’s midfield. - CM: Romeo Lavia
Lavia’s partnership with Caicedo has flourished, and he may start again to give Fernandez some rest ahead of the crucial weekend clash against Tottenham.
Forwards
- RM: Noni Madueke
Madueke, who was rested on Sunday, is likely to feature from the start in a rotated attack. - AM: Cole Palmer
Palmer’s creativity has been vital for the Blues, and he’ll look to continue his form after scoring against Villa last weekend. - LM: Joao Felix
While Jadon Sancho impressed recently, Felix’s versatility and fitness make him a strong candidate to start, potentially operating in a slightly wider role. - ST: Nicolas Jackson
Chelsea’s leading forward, Jackson, has been in red-hot form with eight league goals this season, making him an automatic choice up front.
Key Points
Chelsea’s Tactical Strengths
Enzo Maresca’s structured approach in and out of possession has solidified Chelsea’s performances. Their ability to adapt to different opponents has been instrumental in their rise up the table.
Title Contention?
While it’s still early to label Chelsea as title challengers, their current form and favorable fixture list could see them firmly in the race if they maintain consistency.
With a confident squad and tactical clarity, Chelsea head into this fixture as strong favorites to secure three points against Southampton.
SOURCE: 90mim.com