Chelsea predicted XI for Villa: Plenty of options, plenty of youth
By Varun Dani
N’Golo Kante (No. 7) Central midfielder, France
Chelsea has a lot of great players to choose from, but there is only one non-debatable world-class player in its midst and that is Kante. After three seasons of absolute domination, Kante has had quite a sub-par season this time around due to constant injuries and there were also fears that his heart condition would keep him out of this pandemic-hit restart. He has, however, returned to full training and taken part in the recent friendlies. He’s seemingly readied himself for the game on Sunday. Simply put, when Kante is fit, he starts; regardless of what pass percentage merchants tell you.
Billy Gilmour (No. 47) Central midfielder, Scotland
It is no coincidence that Chelsea’s best performances this season have been against Liverpool and Everton, the matches in which Gilmour won consecutive Man Of The Match awards. The Scottish wonderkid has been scarcely used this season, but Lampard’s insistence on easing him into the senior team over sending him out on loan has been a stroke of genius. Elegant, composed and feisty, Gilmour should take complete control of the match on Sunday to give further proof he is not a ‘talented kid’ anymore, but an important senior player.
Mateo Kovacic (No. 17) Central midfielder, Croatia
The Silent Guardian. The Watchful Protector. The Croatian Knight.
After a frustrating season under the shackles of Maurizio Sarri, Kovacic has been rejuvenated under the tutelage of Lampard, recognised by many as Chelsea’s player of the season. His gritty defensive contribution, slick link-up play and elusive drives from midfield have made him the complete midfielder he was billed up to be during his Inter days. He’s often held the entire team together with his displays. He might not be present in the goal-assists table, but any football fan worth their salt will understand the balance Kovacic brings to Chelsea. Count on him to be ever-present against Villa, as well.