Chelsea predicted XI for Villa: Plenty of options, plenty of youth
By Varun Dani
Christian Pulisic (No. 22) Right wing, United States
After a slow start to the season and some expert man-management by Lampard, Pulisic started putting in some big performances for Chelsea and became quite an influential player. However, injuries struck and Pulisic struggled for fitness before the forced break. Back to being fully fit, Pulisic should be restored in the line-up, albeit not on his favourite left side due to the lack of options. Lampard will hope that the American will find his feet quickly as the Blues will rely heavily on him in this last phase of the season.
Mason Mount (No. 19) Left wing, England
No one understands Lampard’s footballing philosophy more than Mount; nobody believes in Mount’s footballing acumen more than Frank Lampard. The young Englishman has had some good and bad spells, but even at his worst, Lampard has stuck by him. Through his relentless pressing, selfless attacking and effortless space creation, Mount always brings something to the team. With Willian and Pedro in limbo because of their contract situations and Hudson-Odoi lacking match fitness, Mount might find himself playing on wings. Regardless, play he will.
Tammy Abraham (No. 9) Striker, England
Another player who struggled for fitness before the break, a re-energised Tammy Abraham should take his rightful place up top in the striker position against the club he played for last season. As Abraham returns to his old hunting ground, he will be reminded of just how far he has come this season, breaking the infamous ‘No. 9’ curse and establishing himself as Chelsea’s talisman.
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While Giroud makes a great case to start himself, Abraham has earned the title of Chelsea’s undisputed starting striker and will fight tooth and nail to ensure it stays that way (cc: Timo Werner.)