Chelsea’s recent revival continued with a hard fought 2-1 victory over Southampton at the St. Mary’s Stadium on Saturday and earning three points away from home against such a good side means that the Blues have definitely turned a corner in their season.
Now Chelsea prepare to square off against Norwich City in another away clash on Tuesday night and despite the Canaries’ struggles over the past few weeks, one can be sure that Guus Hiddink’s men will have to play well again in order to earn the three points on the day.
Here is the probable Chelsea starting lineup for the clash against Southampton –
Goalkeeper
Thibaut Courtois was solid against Southampton once again and although there were times that the Belgian could have been sharper, it was a decent overall display from the young goalkeeper.
Now up against a toothless Norwich City attack, Courtois will be confident of keeping a clean sheet but the Chelsea custodian most certainly cannot afford to be complacent.
Defence
Branislav Ivanovic was the hero for Chelsea against Southampton after scoring a last minute winner and apart from his goal; the Serbian was very solid at the back.
In the continued absence of John Terry and Kurt Zouma, Ivanovic will be lining up alongside Gary Cahill in central defence once again while Cesar Azpilicueta takes his place on the right hand side of the backline.
Abdul Baba Rahman was hauled off at half time following his error laden performance against Southampton and the Ghanaian international is likely to be dropped in favour of Kenedy in midweek.
Midfield
Cesc Fabregas and John Obi Mikel had a key role to play in the victory last weekend and the duo is certain to start at the middle of the park once again while the wide positions is set to be occupied by Willian and Eden Hazard.
Pedro was forced off early against the Saints due to an injury and the Spaniard is likely to be replaced by Oscar in the position behind the lone striker. Nemanja Matic will once again have to do with only a place on the bench.
Attack
Diego Costa endured a frustrating outing last time out and he will surely be keen on making amends this time around against a suspect Norwich City backline.
Loic Remy and Bertrand Traore are set to be named on the bench while Radamel Falcao and Alexandre Pato are still struggling with fitness related issues.
(4-2-3-1)
Via – Lineup Builder
