Will Mourinho rest stars for the Champions League clash midweek?
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With Chelsea comfortably top of the Premier League table, a win at Aston Villa today will put them one step closer to the title…
GK) Petr Cech
Cech’s kept the best goalkeeping record in the top flight this term, and on current form he’s arguably the best in the top flight. He’s only conceded four in Chelsea’s last ten matches.
DR) Branislav Ivanovic
The Serbian fullback has been quietly exceptional for the Blues this season. He will have to deal with the pace of Agbonlahor down Villa’s left though.
DC) Gary Cahill
Cahill and Terry have formed the best defensive partnership in the country, and it’s a shame it won’t be able to benefit England during this summer’s World Cup.
DC) John Terry
With David Luiz injured, the English defenders will be given the nod, knowing a clean sheet will put their side in an excellent position. The Blues have only conceded 22 goals all season in the league.
DL) Cesar Azpilicueta
The Spaniard is Chelsea’s first choice left-back now under Mourinho, but with Ashley Cole troubled with an injury, it’s even more certain that Azpilicueta will start.
MC) Ramires
Mourinho could stick with the same midfield three that battered Spurs last time out. This features Ramires in a box-to-box role, and his exceptional fitness enables him to contribute defensively and offensively for the duration of the match.
MC) Nemanja Matic
Matic has been exceptional since arriving in January, and is a key member of the side already. He’s cup tied for the midweek Champions League clash, so will definitely start today.
MC) Frank Lampard
We don’t expect Lampard to start against Galatasaray, so after having a week’s break since Chelsea’s last fixture, the 35-year-old should be ready to play versus Villa.
AMR) Andre Schurrle
Schurrle has established himself as a key member of Chelsea’s side recently, and we think Mourinho will select him ahead of Willian today, with the Brazilian used in the Champions League.
AML) Eden Hazard
Hazard always starts, and today should be no exception. He’s scored 13 in the league so far.
FC) Samuel Eto’o
Demba Ba is in contention for a start after scoring twice versus Spurs, but we think Mourinho will stick with the tried and tested Samuel Eto’o, who started last time out. Fernando Torres is rated as doubtful anyway.
