Chelsea predicted XI vs Sheffield United: Trust in the 4-3-3
Chelsea hosts Sheffield United as they look to continue their run ahead of the break. Who might start against the Blades in this one?
The international break looms, but Chelsea still has one more guest before then. The Blues welcome the Blades of Sheffield United for another fierce battle. This fixture saw Tammy Abraham score a brace and Kurt Zouma score an own goal last season.
The Blues have had little time to rest and train between games so fitness is not so straightforward forward. Chelsea’s marquee signing, Kai Havertz, has tested positive for the coronavirus so he won’t be available. That said, here is our predicted XI:
Goalkeeper, Edouard Mendy (No. 16), Senegal
Mendy is the easiest selection for this game. He has delivered every time he has been called upon in his last six games. Saving every shot that has come his way. He is at the top of his game, and is certainly better than anyone the fans have seen between the sticks since 2018.
Right back, Reece James, No. 24, England
The young Englishman has impressed for club and country this season. His performances have been remarkable. Winning duels and creating chances often. His crosses are well weighted, well delivered, and made easy for the recipient, like the assist to Tammy Abraham against Rennes. James is developing very well and Cesar Azpilicueta takes some credit for that. James will play many games for Chelsea. Many games indeed.
Centerback, Thiago Silva, No. 6, Brazil
Silva’s still got it. The Brazilian veteran has done very well in making Chelsea defensively solid again. He calmness on the ball and his expert distribution has done a lot for Chelsea’s attacks. He has shown that football is played with the brain. He has kept five clean sheets in six appearances for Chelsea. He has not done it alone, but he has done his part, and his part is perhaps the most important part. Regardless of your opinion before the Brazilian arrived, you cannot ignore the fact that his partnership with Kurt Zouma has been fruitful for Chelsea. The team has been defending better as a team, and that cannot be separated from Silva.
Centerback, Kurt Zouma, No. 15, France
Zouma is still Chelsea’s best centerback and it has shown in the fact that he has played 90 minutes in all of Chelsea’s clean sheets. He is the only outfield player who has been present for all the minutes Chelsea hasn’t conceded a goal since Crystal Palace. That’s not coincidence either, as he often records more clearances per game than anyone else. His intelligent positioning enables him to make these clearances. His dominance in the air means he protects his box, as well as offers a threat in attacking corners. The Frenchman has scored three league goals this season, showing he’s contributing on both ends of the pitch.
Left back, Ben Chilwell, No. 21, England
Chilwell has contributed his fair share to clean sheets too, but not just that, he has been an essential element in Chelsea’s attack. He was brought in to take over primary left back duties and he has done that brilliantly since his arrival from Leicester City. Many doubted that he’d be the right signing but since he has arrived you’d be hard-pressed to find someone who hasn’t been happy with his performances. He handled the step-up excellently.