Stamford Bridge plays host to its first clash of the season between Chelsea and Liverpool, the reigning champions, but what are some things to look for?
Chelsea plays its first home game of the season on Sunday afternoon as Liverpool travels to Stamford Bridge. The Blues host the champions on the back of a 3-1 win over Brighton in the season’s opening match. The game against Brighton was hard fought, despite what the score line suggests.
The Seagulls played better than many expected as it was a performance Graham Potter can be happy with. Regardless of how the Blues played, Frank Lampard’s team left the Amex Stadium with the all important three points. The debuts of Kai Havertz and Timo Werner were overshadowed on the night by Reece James, who stole the headlights after his applaudable performance. His goal and assist meant Chelsea won their opening game, but the second match of the season poses many more threats. Here are three things to look for as the Blues host the Reds:
Reece James
On the topic of the defender, James will be one to look for in west London at the weekend. His performance in the previous game resulting in him winning Man of the Match and it’d be difficult to justify dropping him after a flawless showing.
He has a bigger test ahead of him on Sunday against the champions. His direct opponent is Sadio Mane, who has transformed his game under Jurgen Klopp and become one of the best players in the league. James will surely have his work cut out for him, but his stellar performance means he will keep his place in the line-up. This is despite captain Cesar Azpilicueta being fit, who will either remain on the bench—which is a rarity—or start on the left.
It will be interesting to see James’ style of play against the Merseyside club. Against Brighton, he could go forward more, but not as often as usual. Chelsea saw less of the ball which meant he could express himself in the home sides half less than in the year prior. The upcoming encounter will be much of the same. His defensive capabilities are going to be needed. James’ physicality and power allow him to win tackles, keep the ball and shields off opposing players. All of these attributes—and more—will be needed against Jurgen Klopp’s side if he wants to keep his name on the team sheet in the future.
Lampard’s selection
Liverpool will bring a more distinctive style than what Lampard’s side faced in Brighton. The champions will have more creative and intense attacks, Chelsea will be on the back foot a lot more. The defence was torn apart on many occasions last season as Chelsea conceded 54 Premier League goals—the most in the top half.
The Blues finished fourth despite the frailties and they’ll need some of that luck in this match, as well. Thiago Silva and Ben Chilwell will be out, meaning the same back line from last season will take the pitch. This campaign, the leaky defense must change if Lampard’s side is going to challenge for the club’s sixth title.
The midfield area will be the biggest dilemma for Lampard at the weekend. This could be where the game is won or lost; win the middle of the park and you likely take the three points. Jorginho captained the side against Brighton, N’Golo Kante was back to himself and Mason Mount was lively. Player of the season, Mateo Kovacic, will be in contention to start this one after returning from suspension. He will be eager to get back on the field. The Croatian’s neat passing and dribbling can bypass nearly any opposing press—a tactic in which Liverpool deploys on many occasions.
In the end, Lampard’s selections could make or break the match.
The new boys
Werner has played two games for Chelsea with both coming against Brighton—the friendly and the first game of the season. He did not score in the competitive game on Monday night, but his influence was noticeable. His pace was there and it’s clear to see what he brings to the side, especially in terms of quality.
The German’s perfectly timed runs behind the defensive will be constant this season. He will be itching to get off the mark against Liverpool, given the history. He was linked to the Anfield club before signing on the dotted line for Chelsea, so this game presents an opportunity to put any tabloid talks to bed.
His German teammate, Havertz, was questioned after his debut on Monday, which isn’t exactly fair to the No. 29. The 21-year-old has had no preseason; he joined a new club in a new country and therefore, he needs time. His performance against Liverpool will be interesting, to say the least. Havertz will be determined to silence his critics. The big price tag means there is pressure, he will know this, even if he doesn’t acknowledge it. It is now his job to make himself known in the Premier League.
What are the things you’ll be looking for? Let us know in the comments or on Twitter!