Jose Mourinho’s Chelsea faces a crunch meeting with his former club Porto on Wednesday night with their Champions League hopes still hanging in the balance.
It’s not been a good season for the Blues so far, but Europe’s most elite club competition remains a beacon of light for the club’s beleaguered fans.
However, this won’t be an easy clash, and only a victory will be enough to keep them from befalling the same fate as Manchester United and dropping down into the Europa League.
With that in mind, it will take a monumental effort from the club’s players, and it’s likely that Mourinho will select a strong XI. Scroll below to see who we think he’ll pick…
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GK: Thibaut Courtois
With the Belgian now back in action, he’ll want to atone for conceding to Bournemouth at the weekend.
LB: Cesar Azpilicueta
Back in his role on the left, as he’d represent a safer bet than Baba Rahman.
CB: John Terry
Terry’s inclusion will largely come down to whether he’s fit, but if he can lace his boots his experience will be vital.
CB: Gary Cahill
If he can line up alongside Terry, his presence will undoubtedly represent a huge boost of confidence for Blues fans.
RB: Branislav Ivanovic
Another experienced performer that will be expected to come up with the goods.
CM: Nemanja Matic
There’ll be added incentive for the ex-Benfica man to produce a good show against his former rivals.
CM: Ramires
The Brazilian has been in fine form since penning a new contract earlier this season, and has the potential to influence proceedings through the middle.
LAM: Eden Hazard
Still yet to kick on from second gear, so he’ll be expected to prove his worth very soon.
CAM: Cesc Fabregas
Like Hazard, he’s looked a shell of his former self recently, but a goal and a good performance could see him back to his old self.
RAM: Willian
Willian is the most likely match winner Chelsea have. If they get a free kick around the box then it’s game over.
ST: Diego Costa
Mourinho’s decision to drop him from recent match day squads could prove a masterstroke if it prompts a much needed reaction.