Chelsea predicted XI vs Villa: 3-4-3 for fourth clean sheet?

Marc Cucurella (No. 32) Left centerback, Spain

Cucurella is likely to start this weekend at left centerback, not particularly because of anything to do with Kalidou Koulibaly’s performance, but because it seems that Potter has decided to rotate them for Champions League and Premier League games, which is smart.

Ben Chilwell (No. 21) Left wingback, England

Chilwell was alright. He didn’t have much to do defensively and was OK offensively.

Cesar Azpilicueta (No. 28) Right wingback, Spain

Azpilicueta came on for an injured James midweek and he likely starts this one. Even if James’s injury isn’t too serious, Potter and the medical staff will want to take precautions and not risk a more serious injury. Azpilicueta also deserves to start in his own right as he looked very good in the Crystal Palace game last Saturday.

Mateo Kovacic (No. 8) Right central midfielder, Croatia

Kovacic has had much better performances in a Chelsea shirt. His dribbling against Milan at the San Siro was less than impressive, completing 0/2. His passing was superb, but he only won 2/9 duels. He might make way for Ruben Loftus-Cheek before too long.

Jorginho (No. 5) Central midfielder, Italy

Jorginho put on a Man-of-the-Match-worthy performance against Milan. He made 12 passes in the final third, completed 97% of his passes, and made seven defensive actions, including 3/3 tackles won and two interceptions. He won 4/6 ground duels. Jorginho played the role of Midfield Maestro impeccably.