Chelsea vs Villa: predicted XI, Young Lion starts, Felix dropped in 3-4-3

Ruben Loftus-cheek (No. 12) Right wingback, England

Fans’ favorite Reece James continues to suffer from injuries. His International camp was cut short as the world class right back yet again concerned with how his left felt. England National team Head Coach Gareth Southgate says that,

"“Reece has gone back, he’s not completely happy with how his leg feels. He was a little bit concerned about that earlier in the week. “I think, probably for him, the injury after the injury that ruled him out of the World Cup has made him a little more cautious at this moment in time. It probably needs some time. “It is not unusual to have a serious injury and then smaller injuries on the back of that. With Reece, it is a case of building his resilience to load and him being comfortable with that.”"

Graham Potter will definitely not want to take any risks, and would instead have Ruben Loftus-cheek start who has been pretty reliable back up throughout the season.

Enzo Fernandez (No. 5) Central midfielder, Argentina

The outstanding central midfielder has managed to impress the Chels’ faithful every time he has stepped out on the pitch. His accuracy and range of passing have particularly caught the eye. And after scoring a stunner on International duty with Argentina, Fernandez will be itching to bring those goals back to the bridge.

Denis Zakaria (No. 8) Central midfielder, Croatia

Kovacic was one of Croatia’s better player on International duty meeting expectations. However due to the similarities in Fernandez and Kovacic’s attributes and playing style, the duo struggle to complement each other as a pairing leaving the defence exposed on most occasions. The Leicester game clearly displayed that.

On the other hand, our very own, N’Golo Kante, has completed his comeback from injury as he returned to the pitch featuring in the Development squad’s game while the others were away on International duty. However Potter would want to integrate him into the first team gradually with the aim of having him fully fit and sharp at the Santiago Bernabeu.

This leaves Denis Zakaria who fits the description as one of the best options to use on the weekend. The Switzerland International made a statement for himself after finally being given some playtime a few months ago. However his injury hampered his progress. But considering his performances on International duty and his ability to take care of all the dirty work, will allow Fernandez the freedom to penetrate into the opponent’s half and  make optimal use of his attacking attributes.

Ben Chilwell (No. 21) Left wingback, England

Chilwell has never looked back since returning from his long term injury. He picked up form in no time and continued performing at the same level on International duty with the Three Lions as well. The Blues’ supporters will expect no less from him in this upcoming month stacked with crucial fixtures.