We predict the Chelsea team for today’s clash with Stoke City at Stamford Bridge.
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Mark Schwarzer
The veteran played in the Third Round win at Derby County and could again be given the nod ahead of Cech. But, despite the changes made under Mark Hughes, Stoke are not averse to pumping balls into the box and Schwarzer must be varying of the threat posed by Peter Crouch and co.
Branislav Ivanovic
With Cesar Azpilicueta switching flanks, there is a distinct lack of competition for Ivanovic’s place at right back at the moment. But the powerful Serb has been one of Chelsea’s best players this season and should feature here.
Ashley Cole
The England defender has lost his place in the Premier League to right-footed Spaniard Cesar Azpilicueta but is likely to be handed some game-time by Mourinho against the Potters.
Gary Cahill
Cahill started the last round against Derby and should be given the nod here, with 33-year-old John Terry set to be given a rest.
David Luiz
Like Cahill, Luiz will almost certainly play to allow Chelsea to remain competitive while Terry is given the weekend off.
Nemanja Matic
The Serbian midfielder is likely to be given his second full debut as a Chelsea player and should line-up in a deep-lying midfield role.
Frank Lampard
In times gone by Lampard would have been rested for this one but the England midfielder is no longer a guaranteed starter – particularly after Matic’s arrival and should play this one.
Willian
The sales of Juan Mata and Kevin De Bruyne have suddenly seen Chelsea’s stock of attacking midfielders dramatically reduce. The impressive and tireless Willian remains, however, and is likely to face Mark Hughes’ side.
Oscar
The Brazilian playmaker has seen off Juan Mata’s challenge and the future looks very rosy. With Mohamed Salah not yet signed, expect Oscar to remain in the team.
Andre Schurrle
With Eden Hazard set to be rested, German Andre Schurrle will join Willian and Oscar in attacking midfield. The summer signing has struggled to make an impact so far this season but the departures of Mata and De Bruyne will give him more opportunities and he must impress if give a chance against Stoke.
Demba Ba
Samuel Eto’o’s match-winning display against Manchester United has affirmed the Cameroonian’s status as first choice lone striker in the Premier League. So with Fernando Torres injured, expect Demba Ba to given a run out in this cup clash.