Chelsea predicted XI vs Palace: back to 3-4-1-2 for Felix-less Blues?

Thiago Silva, No. 6, Centerback

Silva was the best centerback for the Blues on the pitch against Fulham, though he was still markedly not as good as the Fulham centerbacks. It wasn’t difficult to be Chelsea’s best centerback on the night though, and him being the best centerback on the pitch is not a good thing. At all.

Kalidou Koulibaly, No. 26, Centerback

Koulibaly also didn’t have a good game the last time out, but he hasn’t really had one in a while, even going as far back as when Thomas Tuchel was in charge. He would be one of the players that Potter hopes can help him turn things around due to his experience and leadership. Koulibaly himself has talked about the realization of the differences between the Serie A and the Premier League, maybe that explains his form.

Cesar Azpilicueta, No. 28, Right back

Azpilicueta was one of the leaders Potter had a meeting with. To the fans and the board, the content of that meeting is irrelevant, as Potter will be largely judged on what the team produces on the pitch. James is still injured, which means that Azpilicueta will still start.

Marc Cucurella, No. 32, Spain

Cucurella likely returns to the lineup after the Fulham defeat. Lewis Hall didn’t have a good game, but that doesn’t say much. Potter handed Hall an opportunity, which he gets credit for doing considering the circumstances, however the English manager is likely to go back to the safest possible selections.