How we think the Blues will line up on Friday against West Ham…
Chelsea have a tough festive period, with games against Southampton and Tottenham to come, but they kick off with a home game against West Ham on Boxing Day.
With Eden Hazard looking likely to miss out, here’s how we think José Mourinho will line up his side.
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GK) Thibaut Courtois
The keeper shook off his knock to start on Monday and will play again against the Hammers.
DR) Branislav Ivanovic
The right-back is first choice and won’t be rested for a game where his set-piece prowess will be needed.
DC) John Terry
Scored on Monday and will want to get another against the club he left when he was 15.
DC) Gary Cahill
John Terry’s centre-back partner will be tested heavily by Andy Carroll.
DL) Cesar Azpilicueta
Will be preferred to Felipe Luis for his defensive abilities.
CM) Jon Obi Mikel
In recent games Mourinho has played Mikel alongside Matic rather than Fabregas, and against West Ham’s strong side this will continue.
CM) Nemanja Matic
Put in another all-star performance on Monday and will need to be at his best once again.
AML) Oscar
Dropped for Mikel on Monday, but will get his chance back in the side in place of the injured Eden Hazard.
AMC) Cesc Fabregas
Should continue as a number ten ahead of the Mikel-Matic axis.
AMR) Willian
Has disappointed in recent weeks but Mourinho just doesn’t trust Schurrle to replace the Brazilian.
ST) Diego Costa
May be rotated in Chelsea’s other festive fixtures but his physicality will be needed in this one.