Chelsea are looking to qualify for the knockout stage of the Champions League, and do so by topping the group, on Wednesday 9th December at Stamford Bridge against Jose Mourinho’s former side Porto.
There has been a massive call for change in the starting line-up of late, but with so much riding on this final fixture one believes that Mourinho will opt for an experienced side that will (hopefully) see the job through.
Goalkeeper
Thibaut Courtois: Everyone was glad to see Thibaut back in the side at the weekend. Granted, he could have done more for Bournemouth’s goal but made a number of saves throughout the game. It may seem harsh on Asmir Begovic but Cech was allowed to be sold for a reason – that reason being the giant that is Thibaut Courtois.
Defenders
RB – Branislav Ivanovic: Not had the best of seasons but experience wise has been there through it all. At his best brings stability and solidity to the back four. Though will have to play better than he did when we last faced Porto in September.
CB – Gary Cahill: Recently awarded a new four-year contract, Gary Cahill, I believe, will start this one due to the fact that we’ll be at the Bridge. It’s a fairly narrow pitch and we’ll be expected to be on the front foot, a big reason why I feel that Mourinho will opt for him over Zouma. (Though this may prove costly on the counter-attack!)
CB – John Terry: Captain, Leader, Legend. Having heard that he is fit I expect JT to be back in the side due to his leadership, experience and the occasion. Mourinho knows he can depend on Terry to organise things at the back. He may be 35, but he’s still got it!
LB – Cesar Azpiliceuta: Mr Consistent should be recalled ahead of Baba Rahman at left back for this game. It is important that we don’t lose and with Dave’s willingness to stay tight at the back, added to his experience over Rahman, will see him return to the side.
Midfielders
CDM – Ramires: Ramires has also been declared fit and what with the need to not be overrun in midfield, Ramires’ willingness to do so would be a massive asset in the match. At times Cesc Fabregas is criticised for his lack of defending ability but placing Ramires at the base will sort both of those issues.
CDM – Nemanja Matic: The massive Serbian will definitely be needed in this final fixture. His ability to break up attacks and bring the ball forward, aided by the willingness of Ramires to cover, should form a pretty solid base.
RM – Willian: Our player of the season by a mile is required in such an important fixture. His tracking, willingness to chase down and his forever improving technical ability means he is a must in our starting eleven for any fixture! Add to that the fact that a free-kick with him practically means a goal and he’s one of the first on the team-sheet.
CAM – Cesc Fabregas: A brilliant player that needs to show the magic he displayed so often this season. I believe having him as the attacking midfielder will enable him to link up with Hazard and co without having to worry too much about the defensive side of things.
LM – Eden Hazard: Our player of the year last year is starting to show glimpses of the form that had him compared to the world’s best not so long ago, his talent is not the issue, the confidence is. Hopefully he’ll get on the score sheet and go from strength to strength…and what a game to do it in!
Striker
CF – Diego Costa: Many want Loic Remy to start but I feel that Mourinho will opt for Costa. When he is on his game he is our best striker and showed how clinical he was last season. Hopefully, like Hazard, he turns up and shows what he is all about.
