Antonio Rudiger Chelsea
Antonio Rudiger Chelsea

Chelsea picked up a 3-2 win over Crystal Palace in the Premier League in midweek and next up, they take on Sheffield United away from home.

Chelsea leapfrogged above Leicester into the third spot on the table after the Foxes were held to a draw by Arsenal so if the Blues can beat the Blades then they will further consolidate their position right behind Manchester City.

Sheffield United’s form had dipped since the restart but on Wednesday, Chris Wilder’s men managed to grab three crucial points from Wolves at Bramall Lane.

So despite having won 5 of their last 6 matches in the league, Chelsea will have to be really cautious going into this match as Sheffield can really hurt Lampard’s defence during the weekend.

Chelsea team news vs Sheffield United:

Kepa Arrizabalaga made a fine save towards the end of the match in order to stop Crystal Palace from picking up a point in midweek and the Spaniard will start in goal while Rudiger will be partnered by Christensen in central defence.

Reece James should keep his place in the starting line-up meaning Marcos Alonso will once again start on the bench as Azpilicueta plays at right-back.

N’Golo Kante picked up a hamstring injury last week and remains a doubt for the game against the Blades. Mateo Kovacic is also a doubt meaning Jorginho could finally get a start for the Blues at Bramall Lane.

If the Italian starts in defensive midfield then Billy Gilmour will move to the bench also because the youngster played against Palace in midweek.

Ross Barkley could be rested as Ruben Loftus-Cheek comes into the side while Mason Mount will keep his place in the starting XI.

Olivier Giroud has been in peak form since the restart of the season but Lampard will look to rotate his squad in which case Tammy Abraham will replace the Frenchman up front.

Christian Pulisic and Willian have been the star players for Chelsea during the past few matches and the pair are guaranteed starters against Sheffield United on Saturday.

Chelsea’s predicted XI vs Sheffield United:

Predicted starting XI: Arrizabalaga; Christensen, Antonio Rudiger, Reece James, Azpiliceuta; Jorginho, Loftus-Cheek, Mason Mount; Pulisic, Tammy Abraham, Willian.

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