Chelsea Predicted Line Up vs Schalke: Costa Fit To Start But Azpilicueta Drops Out

How Chelsea will line up to face Schalke in the Champions League.

Jose Mourinho’s men can secure qualification to the next round of the Champions League with a victory over Roberto Di Matteo’s Schalke on Tuesday night. However, it will be no easy task, so Mourinho will have to call on a fairly strong side to see them complete the task. Here’s how we think they’ll line up.

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GK: Petr Cech

Similar to Iker Casillas at Real Madrid, Cech is now only really called upon for cup competitions.

LB: Felipe Luis

The Brazilian will come in for Azpilicueta, giving the Spaniard the chance to rest up.

CB: John Terry

The skipper will lead the defence against the Germans.

CB: Gary Cahill

Despite featuring in both England games as well as playing against West Brom at the weekend, Cahill will likely line up alongside Terry once more.

RB: Branislav Ivanovic

May not be able to maraud as mush as he’d like against the Bundesliga side, but will instead shore up the defence to ensure qualification.

DM: Nemanja Matic

Matic has been somewhat of an unsung hero for the Blues this term and will likely be the lynchpin in bringing the ball out from the defence.

CM: Cesc Fabregas

Already fast becoming the signing of the season, Fabregas could clinch a safe passage all on his own.

LAM: Eden Hazard

Mourinho will look to the Belgian to drive at the Schalke back line, getting them to commit before it’s too late.

RAM: Willian

The Brazilian has really come into his own this term and is so far keeping Andre Schurrle out of the side.

AM: Oscar

It’s as you were again behind the strikers as Oscar looks set to continue.

ST: Diego Costa

After the break from the Spain squad, Costa made his return against WBA this weekend and will now look to get back to his best against the Germans.