The dreaded international break has finally come to its conclusion this week, now players, coaches and fans alike turn their attention to the upcoming fixture at the Riverside this weekend. The Blues will travel to face a Middlesbrough side looking to add on the last minute equaliser they bagged at the Etihad less than a fortnight ago.
Before the squad went its separate ways to represent their nations in the November world cup qualifiers and friendlies, Chelsea were full of form and confidence – something a Mourinho side lacked last season – having demolished Ronald Koeman’s Everton side 5-0 at the Bridge. After the game Koeman had spoken about his admiration of the 3-4-3, stating “I never saw a team playing so well this system” which is quite the compliment taking into consideration that he featured Johan Cruyff’s Barcelona side during the late 80’s and early 90’s.
The Blues will be looking to make it six consecutive victories in the league but Aitor Karanka and his side will attempt to do whatever they can to scupper the away side’s early push for the Premier League title.
Match Details
Sunday 20th November 2016, Riverside Stadium, K.O: 16:00 (GMT), Sky Sports 1, Referee: John Moss.
One To Watch
Victor Valdes – The Spaniard looked to be on the decline after leaving Barcelona a couple years ago, afted failing to make an impact at Manchester United and on loan at Standard Liege, but Aitor Karanka took the chance on the former La Masia product, a decision that has benefited the Yorkshire based club, as they currently sit 15th in the table. Valdes played pivotal role in their draw to Manchester City and produced a man of the match performance at the Emirates as recently as match week 9. Although the 31-year-old stands 6 inches smaller than Chelsea’s Thibaut Courtois, Valdes still has a similar presence in between the sticks and will be a key figure in preventing the travelling side from taking away 3 points and making it 6 consecutive victories in the league.
Recent Form
Middlesbrough: DWDLD (GF: 4, GA: 3)
Chelsea: WWWWW (GF:16, GA: 8)
Previous Meeting
Middlesbrough 0-2 Chelsea
Team News
Hazard & Costa picked up minor injuries during the international break but are fully fit and ready to play on Sunday. Fabregas has returned from injury and could be back in the squad this weekend.
Predicted XI:
Courtois; Azpilicueta, Luiz, Cahill; Moses, Kante, Matic, Alonso; Pedro, Hazard, Costa.
