Chelsea are in trouble.
The Premier League title could already be out of their hands just five games into the new season, having already lost three games, but they have a chance to prove their worth in the Champions League.
Chelsea take on Maccabi Tel Aviv at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday night, in a clash that Nemanja Matic has insisted the Blues ‘have to win’ to help quickly pick up their suffering confidence.
Jose Mourinho could make some changes to his Blues team and is expected to drop three senior stars – who looked indispensable to the lineup last season.
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Here’s how we think Chelsea will line up…
GK – Asmir Begovic
With Thibaut Courtois out following knee surgery for the next three months, Begovic is a sure starter during this period. He is arguably the only Blues player who supporters can feel pleased with his performances when called upon this season.
RB – Cesar Azpilicueta
Branislav Ivanovic is seriously underperforming and is likely to be rested for the European clash to avoid more negative headlines on his performance. Azpilicueta therefore is likely to move across to right-back, allowing for Baba Rahman’s first appearance.
CB – Gary Cahill
It was a harsh decision from Mourinho to start Kurt Zouma in place of Cahill – and one that didn’t pay off, with the Frenchman looking out of his depth at times against Everton. Mourinho needs to settle his centre-back partnership, and Chelsea are at their most secure with Cahill and Terry.
CB – John Terry
Terry isn’t at his best – but he’s not the only one. He shouldn’t be dropped for this clash, as the Blues need their captain on the pitch.
LB – Abdul Rahman Baba
The Ghana international appears to have gone into hiding since arriving in west London last month (we don’t blame him), but is set for his debut at Stamford Bridge as Azpilicueta moves over to right-back.
RCM – Ramires
After another woeful performance from Cesc Fabregas, Mourinho is likely to choose between Ramires or John Obi Mikel. Ramires’ pace could see him pip the Nigerian to a starting place.
LCM – Nemanja Matic
The holding midfielder has been noticeably off key since the start of the season; however, his stunning strike against Everton at the weekend saw his game improve significantly, and will hopefully have a lasting impact on his confidence.
RW – Pedro
The Spaniard has looked eager to impress since arriving from Barcelona three games ago and is unquestionably superior to Willian in the final third.
AM – Oscar
The Brazilian has been out of action since suffering a minor injury against Swansea City on the opening day of the season, but is set for his return to action. And he is likely to replace the underperforming Fabregas in a No.10 role.
LW – Eden Hazard
Plenty of supporters are wondering where the Belgium winger has gone hiding. He simply hasn’t turned up this season, with his fitness a concern. Nonetheless, as he proved in Belgium’s recent game with his goal in the last few minutes of the game, he is always capable of producing magic – even on an off day.
ST – Loic Remy
Costa isn’t firing for the Blues and it’s a significant concern. While the striker may be itching to get his name on the scoresheet against their Israeli opponents, a break from the limelight could be just what’s needed. Loic Remy has fallen hugely out of favour behind Costa and Radamel Falcao, but could be handed his chance to impress with the latter to miss the game through injury.
