Tuchel makes four changes as £33m player starts and Lukaku decision is made: Chelsea predicted XI vs Liverpool

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Chelsea are currently gearing towards this weekend’s Premier League showdown against Liverpool.

The Blues were held to a 1-1 draw in midweek by Brighton, which meant they lost more ground on current league leaders Manchester City.

The Chelsea Chronicle is predicting that there will be three changes against Liverpool from the Brighton result.

One change in Chelsea defence

Edouard Mendy, who will soon depart from the Africa Cup of Nations, will surely continue in net.

Senior Blues defender Antonio Rudiger and Cesar Azpilicueta are likely to stay in the XI.

However, Andreas Christensen was forced off injured with a back problem during the Brighton result, so it’ll be a surprise to see him start again. In fairness, there was no update from Tuchel on his fitness in Friday’s press conference.

If Christensen drops out, Trevoh Chalobah seems the most likely replacement.

Two changes in Blues midfield

N’Golo Kante and Marcos Alonso return to this XI in two changes.

First of all, Kante replaces Mateo Kovcacic in the centre of the park to provide some fresh legs. The midfield battle is going to be decisive against Liverpool.

In addition, Alonso comes into the team for injured teammate Reece James.

Final change in attack

Callum Hudson-Odoi’s had plenty of time lately on the pitch, but his inconsistent form may see him drop out of the XI.

Tuchel’s got plenty of options available to him, but £33million wide man Hakim Ziyech could be a surprise inclusion.

Of course, everyone wants to see if Romelu Lukaku starts after his controversial comments this week. According to Goal, he will be included in tomorrow’s XI. It would be a serious statement from Tuchel if he were to leave him out, but perhaps there’s been time to clear the air.

Finally, Mason Mount retains his position and looks to keep impressing.

Predicted line-up

Mendy

Azpilicueta Chalobah Rudiger

Pulisic Kante Jorginho Alonso

Mount Lukaku Ziyech

IN: Trevoh Chalobah, N’Golo Kante, Marcos Alonso, Hakim Ziyech

OUT: Andreas Christensen, Mateo Kovacic, Reece James, Callum Hudson-Odoi

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