Predicted Chelsea XI vs Middlesbrough: Chilwell starts in 4-2-3-1 formation

Mauricio Pochettino's wasteful Chelsea side were beaten in the first leg of the Carabao Cup Semi Finals by a brave Middlesbrough unit. And after a short break, Boro are set to travel to Stamford Bridge for the second leg where the home fans expect to watch their team make it to the finals.

Conor Gallagher — Middlesbrough v Chelsea - Carabao Cup Semi Final First Leg | Clive Brunskill/GettyImages

6. Central Midfield: Moises Caicedo (Ecuador)

Cesare Casedei and Andrey Santos have been recalled from their respective loans. However Casedei is cup tied and Santos is away on International duty. This means that we may not get to see any new faces feature in midfield.

Enzo Fernandez on Moises Caicedo:

"With Moi we have generated a very good bond, we have a great relationship off the pitch, when it comes to playing the communication is different, we know that with a look we understand each other."

[via @ESPNArgentina]
— Absolute Chelsea (@AbsoluteChelsea) January 17, 2024

7. Central Midfield: Enzo Fernandez (Argentina)

Enzo Fernandez dropped his best performance of the season against Fulham after being heavily criticized in recent times. It's been a year in Chelsea blue and we're blessed to have him; hoping that he puts on a decisive display tomorrow.

8. Central Attacking Midfield: Conor Gallagher (England)

As mentioned by Joe Cole, Conor Gallagher has now become the face of the club. His status at the club has gone up considerably after being handed the captain's armband and the Englishman has done justice. The tenacious midfielder will be crucial in leading tomorrow's comeback trail.