Chelsea will continue their quest for silverware when they host Manchester United on Monday night in the fifth round of the FA Cup.
The Blues’ season looks to have hit a bump in recent weeks following heavy defeats to Bournemouth and Manchester City in the Premier League, leaving their title hopes in tatters.
However, the FA Cup will provide the perfect opportunity to not only regain some form but to also win some silverware, which will be a first for Maurizio Sarri in his managerial career. United will provide some stiff competition, but with the tie being at Stamford Bridge there will be an electric atmosphere under the lights in favour of the home side.
Here’s how Sarri could line up his Chelsea side for the tie on Monday night:
1. Goalkeeper & Defenders
Kepa Arrizabalaga (GK) – Willy Caballero has been Sarri’s preferred keeper in both of their previous FA Cup games this campaign, however with the business end of the competition now upon us Sarri is expected to revert back to his first choice shot stopper Kepa.
Cesar Azpilicueta (RB) – He’s become a real leader at the back for Chelsea in recent seasons, and these are the kind of games where you need a presence like Azpilicueta in your team.
Antonio Rudiger (CB) – The German is quickly becoming a fan favourite at Stamford Bridge, and could have a big part to play on Monday night should Sarri decide to stick with him.
Andreas Christensen (CB) – The Danish international has endured a frustrating campaign so far in terms of playing time, however given the quick turnover of games, expect Sarri to have some rotation in his side which could open the door for the central defender to start.
Marcos Alonso (LB) – Given Manchester United’s threat in the wide areas, Sarri looks set to deploy his best full backs in order to limit their threat, and Alonso will need to be at his best.
2. Midfielders
N’Golo Kante (CM) – Despite being played out of his preferred position this campaign, Kante continues to be a threat at both ends of the pitch and will be crucial in transitioning defence into attack.
Matteo Kovacic (CM) – Another player who has struggled to assert his place in the starting lineup, Kovacic impressed in Chelsea’s fourth round win and will likely be a lot fresher than the Blues’ other midfield options.
Jorginho (CM) – The Italian has come under heavy criticism in recent weeks regarding his passive style of play, however he continues to be backed by the manager and will likely feature on Monday night.
3. Forwards
Eden Hazard (RW) – He remains the first name on the team sheet every week and given the magnitude of the game on Monday, it would be foolish not to have your star man play.
Gonzalo Higuaín (ST) – He’s starting to settle into his new surroundings nicely since his arrival at the club in January, and Higuaín will be looking to bank on his experience to help put his side into the pot for the next round with a goal or two.
Willian (LW) – The Brazilian brings pace and flair to the wide areas for Chelsea, and that’s exactly what they’ll need if they are to progress to the last eight of the competition.
Let’