The Chelsea lineup that should start against Manchester United
Thomas Tuchel’s Chelsea host Manchester United at Stamford Bridge on Sunday, in one of the biggest fixtures of the Premier League calendar.
The Blues go into the game in good form, and are unbeaten since the appointment of Tuchel. That run has spanned eight games, of which six have ended in victory, including Tuesday night’s excellent win against La Liga leaders Atletico Madrid in the Champions League.
However, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s Manchester United will be very tough opposition. The Red Devils are unbeaten away from home in the Premier League, winning eight of the 12 away games they’ve played. Solskjaer’s men currently sit second in the league table, six points clear of the Blues and look a sure-fire bet for a top four finish.
In what will be undoubtedly be a fascinating battle, here’s 90min’s picks for who Chelsea should start.
Edouard Mendy (GK) – Chelsea’s number one has kept ten clean sheets in his 20 Premier League appearances so far, and looks far more assured than Kepa.
Cesar Azpilicueta (CB) – The Spaniard has been somewhat revitalised under Tuchel, playing in seven of the German’s eight games so far. Was excellent in midweek and will skipper the side.
Andreas Christensen (CB) – With Thiago Silva still sidelined through injury, Christensen could get the nod over Kurt Zouma.
Antonio Rudiger (CB) – The German has been in good form since Tuchel replaced Frank Lampard as manager, and has missed out on just 45 minutes of action under his fellow countryman.
Callum Hudson-Odoi (RWB) – Lasted longer in midweek than the 31 minutes he played against Southampton in the Blues‘ last Premier League outing. Played well against Atleti, so should continue on the right flank.
Jorginho (CM) – Is evidently a favourite of Tuchel’s and could be restored to the side ahead of N’Golo Kante. Will have a tough task on his hands keeping
Bruno Fernandes quiet if he does start.
Mateo Kovacic (CM) – The 26-year old is another to have featured in all eight games under Tuchel and will look to utilise his passing range to drive Chelsea forward.
Marcos Alonso (LWB) – Has been reinvigorated under Tuchel, ousting the previously untouchable Ben Chilwell from the side.
Mason Mount (RF) – Will likely drop deeper at times, looking to get on the ball and play between the lines.
Olivier Giroud (ST) – The Frenchman’s acrobatic wonder goal should secure another start, and he now averages a goal every 91 minutes this season. A threat on the ground and aerially.
Timo Werner (LF) – Has vastly improved under Tuchel’s guidance and looks to be finding his confidence. Still short of goals, yes, but his pace and movement could really trouble United’s central defenders.