Back to the title race for the Capital One Cup winners.
Chelsea will still be feeling euphoric after beating London rivals Tottenham Hotspur, in the Capital One Cup final, to seal the first of three available trophies this season.
However, it’s back to reality with the Premier League title race for the Blues – as they face a tough visit to another London rival – West Ham United.
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With Manchester City dropping three huge points to high-flying Liverpool, victory on Wednesday night could see the Stamford Bridge outfit go eight points clear at the top.
Here’s who we think Jose Mourinho will opt for in his starting XI…
GK – Thibaut Courtois
With Petr Cech having started the League Cup final on Sunday, we’d expect Thibaut Courtois to return to Premier League duty.
RB – Branislav Ivanovic
Chelsea’s most consistent player – a sure starter.
CB – Gary Cahill
Has been shaky this season, but was resolute against Spurs, which should be enough for the England international to get the nod alongside skipper John Terry.
CB – John Terry
An outstanding campaign for the Blues captain – and his experience will be vital in the next few weeks, in leading Chelsea to remain top of the table.
LB – Cesar Azpilicueta
Was excellent on Sunday – superb in defence and in attack.
CM – Kurt Zouma
Played in an unfamiliar role in the Capital One Cup final, and improved expertly as the game went on. Mourinho could opt for Ramires, however the Portuguese knows he has a sublime talent on his hands with the Frenchman, and will want to continue pushing the youngster to perform.
CM – Cesc Fabregas
With an exceptional 18 assists so far, the Spaniard is pivotal in the Chelsea midfield.
RW – Juan Cuadrado
With the second-leg of the Champions League against Paris Saint-Germain to come next Wednesday, Mourinho could rest Brazil international Willian, giving January signing Cuadrado a chance to prove his value.
AM – Oscar
Will be disappointed to have missed out on a starting place for Sunday’s final, but should be thrown back into action at Upton Park.
LW – Eden Hazard
A terror in the opposition’s box – Hammers right-back Carl Jenkinson will not be looking forward to facing the Belgian ace.
ST – Diego Costa
Blues striker Costa was superb on Sunday – not only did his strike secure the trophy, but his work-rate was exceptional. Will be eager to add to his 17 Premier League goals.
