Chelsea is set to play host to Burnley right before the international break. The Clarets are a traditional bogie team for the Blues, regardless of their position in the league table. Chelsea has a plethora of injuries at the moment but Thomas Tuchel’s men are on a hot streak at the moment. Will the Blues be able to keep the streak going and go into the latest international break atop the English top flight?
Here is who The Pride of London sees starting for Chelsea on Saturday:
Edouard Mendy (No. 16) Goalkeeper, Senegal
Edouard Mendy has quietly been one of Chelsea’s best players this season. Mendy has stood up like a wall every time the Blues have faltered. There is an argument for giving more chances to Kepa Arrizabalaga as Mendy will be busy with the Senegal squad early next year. However, the fans shouldn’t be too worried as Tuchel probably already has a plan for that. As far as Burnley is concerned, Mendy shouldn’t be anything more than a spectator.
Cesar Azpilicueta (No. 28) Right centerback, Spain
Cesar Azpilicueta started against Malmo in the right wingback position. With Reece James in form on the right, Azpilicueta will probably return to his centerback position against Sean Dyche’s men. Chelsea’s iron man brings experience and calmness in defence. His leadership is essential for the Blues and his mere presence makes things stable. Burnley should be a relatively comfortable game for the captain.
Thiago Silva (No. 6) Centerback, Brazil
Thiago Silva is essential to the Blues. His experience and leadership are constantly visible on the pitch and he ensures that everything is going according to plan. Even at the age of 37, Silva is playing regularly and performing at a high level. What is interesting is that he has adapted his game to suit his strengths and it is very difficult for forwards to beat him. Burnley’s forwards should be prepared for a tough test as Silva will not give them any space at all.
Antonio Rudiger (No. 2) Left centerback, Germany
Everyone starts talking about the stalling contract negotiations as soon as Rudiger’s name comes up. It seems like the Blues are prepared to let the German leave for free rather than giving him the pay rise that he wants. It is good to see that Rudiger isn’t allowing this saga to affect his performances on the pitch though. He has been solid and aggressive on the right side of the three-man defence and his signature deep runs seem to unsettle the opponent regularly. Expect another strong performance from the German against the Clarets.