Chelsea suffered their first loss since the restart, going down 3-2 to London rivals West Ham United in the Premier League on Wednesday.
The loss means the Blues have not been able to capitalise on Leicester City’s defeat to Everton on the same day as a result of which they remain in the fourth spot of the table. And next up, the London side welcome Watford at home on Saturday.
Watford have lost their last 3 away matches in the Premier League whereas Chelsea have won the same number of matches at home in their last three outings so clearly the Blues go into this game as the favourites.
Frank Lampard has an almost fully fit squad to choose from meaning the manager is expected to make a few rotations to his starting line-up during the weekend.
Chelsea team news vs Watford:
Kepa Arrizabalaga was once again average in goal vs the Hammers but the Spaniard will keep his place in the starting line-up.
Reece James could replace Azpilicueta at right-back and Marcos Alonso should also drop to the bench as well. But we do not think the Chelsea boss will be too eager to use Emerson on the left side of the defence so there’s a chance that Azpilicueta could slot in at left-back.
Antonio Rudiger has played a lot of football since the restart and there’s a chance the defender could be rested in the weekend. If Rudiger is moved to the bench then Kurt Zouma will partner Christensen vs the Hornets since Tomori is still out injured.
N’Golo Kante could be rested on Saturday as Jorginho comes into the side to play in that defensive midfielder’s role.
Ross Barkley and Matteo Kovacic started vs West Ham United on Wednesday and they played some pretty decent football. But with so many midfielders at his disposal, Lampard could opt for a rotation policy.
Young Billy Gilmour might come into the starting line-up along with Mason Mount. Ruben Loftus-Cheek came off the bench against the Hammers and the England international could also get a start.
Christian Pulisic has been the best player for Chelsea since the resumption of the season and the American will surely keep his place in the starting line-up.
Willian scored both of Chelsea’s goals in midweek but there’s a chance the Brazilian is rested as Pedro comes into the side.
Tammy Abraham has been really average in the past couple of matches and it will not be a surprise if Frank Lampard opts to use Olivier Giroud up front once again.
Injury updates via Premier Injuries.
