Match Coverage

Chelsea Predicted XI vs Middlesbrough… Mauricio Pochettino starts £45m player in new position

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Mauricio Pochettino is currently preparing his players for the biggest game he has had in charge of the club since taking over in the summer.

Chelsea are 180 minutes away from booking their place at Wembley in the EFL Cup final, with a two-legged tie against Middlesbrough to come.

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Photo by GLYN KIRK/AFP via Getty Images

The boss has already hinted that he will not be welcoming back any of his injured contingent for this game, nor has he lost any from the FA Cup win on Saturday.

Here’s The Chelsea Chronicle’s Predicted XI for Chelsea to take on Middlesbrough in the first leg.

GK and Defence

No real update from Mauricio Pochettino today on the condition of Robert Sanchez, which means Djordje Petrovic will continue his extended run in the team.

Right-back will be occupied by Malo Gusto, who has begun to show real attacking intent since his return from injury.

Thiago Silva was on the scoresheet at the weekend, and will be straight back into the starting team on this huge night for the Blues.

He will be partnered by Axel Disasi, despite the impressive display on his first start from Alfie Gilchrist.

On the left, Levi Colwill will continue to do a job despite it being obvious it is not his strongest role.

Midfield

Enzo Fernandez was welcomed back to the starting side with a goal on Saturday, and will be looking to add to his four for the season tonight.

He will be partnered by Moises Caicedo, whose strong form continues to go under the radar at Stamford Bridge.

Ahead of them, Conor Gallagher will be recalled after a well-earned rest against Preston.

Attack

Raheem Sterling’s stunning free-kick capped off a strong display from him, and he will return to Pochettino’s starting side.

The opposite wing will be occupied by Noni Madueke, who will get the nod just over Mykhailo Mudryk for this first leg.

Up front, Cole Palmer will feature slightly out of position, after the manager hinted in his press conference this could be in the plans.