Chelsea will look to continue their resurgence in the Premier League, when they face off against Eddie Howe’s Bournemouth, at the Vitality Stadium, on Saturday.
The Blues were under pressure after some disappointing results that saw them lose two games in the league, but the slide was arrested with a 4-2 comeback win against Watford last weekend, which was followed by a 2-1 win over Everton in the Carabao Cup, on Wednesday night. Manager Antonio Conte will be hoping that the team continues to build on these wins to take three points against the Cherries.
Wing-back Victor Moses (hamstring) and midfield mainstay N’Golo Kante (hamstring) are the only two injury absentees for the Premier League champions for Saturday’s clash.
Conte is expected to ring in the changes, with most of the first-team regulars who were given a break for the cup game in line for a return.
Here’s how the Blues might line up against the South Coast club on Saturday:
Our first-choice in goal, Thibaut Courtois should replace Willy Caballero who started the cup clash against Everton on Wednesday.
The Spaniard was another who did not feature in the midweek tie and could be set for a return to the playing XI. Started at right wing-back last weekend, but should find himself in the back three on Saturday.
Another regular first-teamer who wasn’t involved in the Carabao Cup, the Brazilian centre-half should resume duties in the heart of the defence.
The club captain hasn’t looked all that convincing in the last few games and will want to shake off the poor run and put in a strong display against Bournemouth.
The Italian has done well each time he has been afforded an opportunity and with Moses still not fit, Conte could look to start his compatriot at right wing-back.
The Frenchman is likely to continue to deputise for his injured fellow countryman, Kante, in the middle of the park again on Saturday.
Alongside Bakayoko, we expect Spanish playmaker Cesc Fabregas to take the field at the Vitality Stadium. Made a brief cameo on Wednesday and impressed, and will look to carry on in the same vein of form.
At left wing-back, Marcos Alonso is expected to return to the playing XI after not being involved on Wednesday. Has tailed off slightly in recent games and will be keen on changing that.
The Spaniard scored a stunner last week against Watford and is a lively presence each time he takes the field. Should start ahead of Willian.
The Belgian wizard was another who was given time off against Everton, but will return to the starting setup on Saturday. Will be our biggest asset going forward.
Endured a frustrating day against Watford last weekend, but will be intent on bouncing back with a strong display to get a goal or two against the Cherries.
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