Chelsea have been having an awful time in the Premier League during the last couple of weeks, but now they have to shift their focus to the FA Cup this week as they take on Liverpool in the fifth round of the tournament.
The Blues overcame the Hull City test in the previous round but beating Liverpool will be a real strenuous task because Chelsea have had a really poor form at Stamford Bridge this season losing two of their last three at home.
Chelsea have won only two of their last eight matches in all competitions and given all the injuries that Frank Lampard has been dealing with, Liverpool could be looking for an easy win on Tuesday.
Chelsea team news vs Liverpool:
Arrizabalaga has been warming the Chelsea benches during the past couple of games but finally, the Spaniard could make a comeback to the first XI when the Blues take on Liverpool.
The manager used a 3-4-2-1 formation against Bournemouth during the weekend and he is expected to use this very same tactic against Liverpool meaning Azpilicueta will once again play in central defence.
Antonio Rudiger remained on the bench vs the Cherries but will return to the starting XI in midweek possibly replacing Christensen.
Premier League suspensions triggered by accumulated yellow cards do not apply to domestic cups meaning Jorginho will be available to face Liverpool this week and will once again partner Mateo Kovacic in central midfield.
Marcos Alonso has been the star performer for Chelsea during their last couple of matches and the Spaniard will surely keep his place in the starting XI.
Ruben Loftus-Cheek has returned back to full fitness and the England international might be in line to make his first start since returning back from his long-term injury.
But if Loftus-Cheek does return start then it will be in a more advanced role possibly alongside Willian.
Tammy Abraham pulled up during a cool-down session and the manager has confirmed that he will be unavailable for selection when Chelsea welcome Liverpool on Tuesday.
The manager has confirmed: “He went to Barcelona to have a look at his ankle with another pair of eyes on it but I’ve got no update.
“I’m hoping it’s not a long-term injury but at the same time I can’t say he’ll be back for Tuesday.”
Abraham’s absence means once again Olivier Giroud will once again get a start upfront for the Blues.
