It was not the prettiest of performances from Chelsea last weekend against Manchester City but as one would expect from a typically result oriented Jose Mourinho side – the Blues got the job done at the end.
Having secured a 1-1 draw, Chelsea managed to keep distance between themselves and City to a healthy five points and the Blues will now have to be considered favourites to go on and lift the Premier League crown this season.
However, there is still a long way to go before the title changes hands and Chelsea most certainly cannot take their foot off the pedal as City will not relinquish their crown without a fight.
Up next is a clash against hapless Aston Villa and although Chelsea are overwhelming favourites to claim the win on the day, they cannot allow complacency to creep into their game after having suffered a disappointing defeat during their last visit to Villa Park.
Here is the Strongest Possible Lineup for Chelsea on the day –
Goalkeeper
Thibaut Courtois was guilty of committing a horrendous error against Manchester City and he will now undoubtedly look to make amends this weekend.
Considering the fact that Aston Villa have not scored a single Premier League goal in over 10 hours of football, Courtois is expected to enjoy a fairly comfortable afternoon.
Nonetheless, the young Belgian will need to be on his guard as the likes of Christian Benteke and Carles Gil are more than capable of finding the net.
Defence
In a team with so much competition such as Chelsea, a youngster needs to grab his chance in the first team whenever it arises and Kurt Zouma has done exactly that.
Zouma has been in fine form after being handed the opportunity to start in recent times and the Frenchman looks set to continue in the lineup ahead of Gary Cahill this weekend as well.
Alongside Zouma, the experienced figure of John Terry has proven to be a calming figure and the Chelsea captain will partner his young compatriot at the heart of the backline.
Branislav Ivanovic and Cesar Azpilicueta have been solid as ever this season for Chelsea and the duo are expected to start again in the full back positions.
Midfield
Chelsea have been handed a huge boost ahead of the game with the news that Cesc Fabregas has been made available for the clash following his hamstring injury and the Spaniard should make a return straight into the squad this weekend.
Ramires is expected to drop to the bench in order to accommodate the return of Fabregas while midfield monster t Nemanja Matic will surely take his place at the heart of the midfield once again.
In the advanced positions, Willian, Oscar and Eden Hazard look like certainties to start but new signing Juan Cuadrado will also be in contention.
Promising youngsters, Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Isaiah Brown are expected to take their place on the bench once again and it would not be a surprise if the duo feature through the course of the match.
Attack
With Diego Costa still unavailable due to suspension, Loic Remy is expected to lead the line once again for Chelsea.
The Frenchman managed a good goal against City last weekend and he will be hopeful of continuing his rich vein of form in front of goal. Veteran striker Didier Drogba also provides an option for Mourinho to choose from.
(4-5-1)
