As defending title holders, Chelsea will be looking to bring the Capital One Cup back to Stamford Bridge as well as their league title.
And though one may be slipping from their grasp, the other is still very much alive.
However, there could very well be opportunities for a number of players on the fringes of the first team to come in and make their case for more regular football in the league.
New goalkeeper Marco Amelia could be given his debut, so as to not overburden Asmir Begovic in Thibaut Courtois’ absence.
At the back John Terry could drop out again for Kurt Zouma, while Branislav Ivanovic will miss out again following his poor form.
John Obi Mikel will be pushing for a start despite being linked with a move away from the club in the new year, and will join youngster Ruben Loftus-Cheek in the middle.
On the left Brazilian youngster Kenedy will likely earn a recall after featuring in the victory over Walsall in the last round, and up front Radamel Falcao will find himself in the last chance saloon before Jose Mourinho decides whether to keep him or return him to Monaco.
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