Chelsea predicted XI at Aston Villa: 3-4-2-1 passes test again

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Chelsea’s English defender Ben Chilwell shoots wide late on during the English Premier League football match between Chelsea and Aston Villa at Stamford Bridge in London on December 28, 2020. (Photo by RICHARD HEATHCOTE/POOL/AFP via Getty Images) /

Reece James (No. 24) Right wingback, England

Reece James played in both games against Leicester, especially commendable seeing as he was played in a position he’s relatively unfamiliar with at this level: right centerback. He was effective against Jamie Vardy in both games and prevented the Leicester marksman from scoring. He should be expected to be moved back for this match though, as Cesar Azpilicueta is still better defensively and James still offers that much more in the offensive phase of play.

Mateo Kovacic (No. 17) Central midfielder, Croatia

The jury is still out on whether Mateo Kovacic was very good or very average in the match against Leicester City. Yes, he made the error that ultimately caused the goal, but he did complete all four of his dribbles and five out of seven long balls too. He won nine out of 12 attempted duels. Overall, that’s pretty good. He also misplaced seven non-long balls, which for a central midfielder can put other teammates under pressure. It was his first game back from a long injury and he came on out of necessity, so he’s allowed some shaky performances early back from injury.

Jorginho (No. 5) Central midfielder, Italy

Jorginho has shown excellent positioning in defensive situations. He has benefit from a system that has allowed him a lot more passing options. He leads the Blues in goals in the league this season (seven), though they’ve all been from penalties. He’s treated unfairly because people expect him to be what he’s not. Jorginho is not the ideal defensive midfielder from every play style or system, just some. Tuchel appreciates what Jorginho does a lot, and there’s a reason for that. To Tuchel’s credit, he has been able to find the various games that Jorginho would be effective in, and has managed the minutes of all his preferred central midfielders very well.

Ben Chilwell (No. 21) Left wingback, England

Ben Chilwell ranks joint fourth (seven) for goals plus assists in the Premier League this season for Chelsea. He struggled a bit at the start of Tuchel’s Chelsea reign, but he has stepped up his game and reclaimed his place from Marcos Alonso, which is exactly the kind of attitude you want from a Blues player. He didn’t start the FA Cup final but he did start the crucial League clash against the same opponents. He played well in both games.

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