Chelsea travel to Anfield as the clear underdogs following six consecutive defeats in the Premier League. The most recent one was against Nottingham Forest, which mathematically ended their Champions League qualification dreams for good.
Liam Rosenior’s earlier sacking had come as a damage control measure as the Blues could no longer risk their chances in the FA Cup with a manager under whom the club suffered five straight defeats in the league without scoring a single goal. That had last happened in 1912.
Following the appointment of Calum McFarlane as their interim manager, the Blues looked for a change in their fortunes, which seemed to be the case as they defeated Leeds United in the FA Cup semi-finals last month at Wembley. But their defeat against Forest was a reminder of where this team truly stand.
With no real hopes of an even game against Liverpool, we try to predict how the Blues could lineup at Anfield.
Chelsea’s predicted XI against Liverpool
FILIP JORGENSEN – Chelsea’s goalkeeping problems have been a constant issue at the club. Robert Sanchez’s head injury against Forest will bring Filip Jorgensen back into the starting lineup.
MALO GUSTO – Despite Reece James’ return from injury, the captain is unlikely to start the game ahead of Gusto as he is more likely to be phased back into the lineup. The Frenchman need to do a lot better than his performance against Forest though.
TREVOH CHALOBAH – With few defensive options, the 26-year-old is expected to start the game despite a poor performance during their last outing.
LEVI COLWILL – Following his 45 minutes against Forest, Colwill might be handed his first start this season against Liverpool.
MARC CUCURELLA – The Spaniard seems like the most definite option at left-back for the Blues, as Jorel Hato has failed to establish himself as a starter despite the recent dip in Cucurella’s form.
MOISES CAICEDO – During the start of the season, when the Blues looked like title contenders, Caicedo had a key role in their success. But with the midfielder’s under-par performances since the turn of the year, the team hasn’t quite looked the same. Let’s hope he turns things around at Anfield.
ANDREY SANTOS – McFarlane is expected to start Santos ahead of Romeo Lavia against Liverpool following the latter’s display last weekend.
COLE PALMER – Despite the Chelsea star’s poor campaign this time around, a fit Cole Palmer is always a starter under any manager, especially during the big games.
ENZO FERNANDEZ – With Palmer’s lack of form this season, Fernandez has undoubtedly proved his worth once again, with his goals and assists. He is the kind of player who might rise to this occasion.
JOAO PEDRO – Chelsea’s top scorer and their best summer signing this season will most likely start the game as their number nine against the Reds.
LIAM DELAP – With the lack of options on the wings with Alejandro Garnacho, Pedro Neto, Estevao, Jamie Gittens and Jesse Derry, all injured, the manager might have no other choice but to go with two forwards against Liverpool.
