Chelsea face a tough task as in-form Everton will attempt to dismantle the Blues’ unbeaten season this coming Sunday. They return to Premier League football after gaining a reasonably fortunate three points on Thursday night in the Europa League. The team will definitely be hoping for a more respectable display, knowing that a win could potentially send the Blues right to the top of the League if Manchester United manage to win against Man City, also on Sunday.
Match Facts:
-The Blues will be hosting Ross Barkley’s boyhood club Everton, for the first time since his £15 million move in January.
-Eden Hazard is expected to return to Chelsea’s Premier League starting 11, for the first time since his injury against Man United.
–Chelsea will be looking to extend their unbeaten run to 18 games.
-Maurizio Sarri can set a record of not losing in his first 12 PL matches as a manager.
-Chelsea are unbeaten in 23 home games against Everton, since 1994.
Predicted Line-up:
GK: Kepa- No question, the Spaniard has been a fantastic addition to Sarri’s team.
RB: Azpilicueta – In my opinion it’s not been his greatest season so far, not really up to his usual standard. Whether this is due to his position change I’m not sure. However I’m sure all Chelsea fans are hoping he returns to his incredible best very soon.
CB: Rüdiger- The German international has been solid so far this campaign, continuing on from his impressive first season at Chelsea. He will be starting unless an injury occurs.
CB: Luiz- It’s been a decent season for him, striving under Sarri’s footballing philosophy that seems to suit the Brazilians style to a tee.
LB: Alonso- The Spanish international is becoming one of the best fullbacks in world football. He was in the Premier League team of the season in his two seasons at the club. This campaign, he looks to be following in a similar fashion.
CM: Jorginho- This man has simply been incredible. He is a major part of the squad adapting so well to Sarri-ball.
CM: Kante- In my opinion the Frenchman has been impressive considering he’s had a position switch. However I can’t help but feel that his talent is being wasted slightly, as he is one of if not the best defensive midfielder in the world.
CM: Barkley– Ross’s incredible recent form has seen the Englishman overtake Kovacic in the starting line-up in recent weeks. He was also up for the October Premier League player of the month. If recent matches are anything to go by, Barkley will start.
RW: Willian- This one’s tough, as Chelsea have two quality players who hold the ability to play in this position. However in my opinion Willian edges it.
ST: Morata- After scoring two in his previous appearance it will come as no surprise to see the Spaniard in Chelsea’s starting 11 this Sunday.
LW: Eden Hazard– It’s simple, if he’s fit he’ll play. Chelsea’s star man is enduring his best start to a Premier League season, with the freedom being provided by Sarri’s footballing ideas.
