Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel will have all his players available, except for Mateo Kovacic, but might want to make a few changes to adapt to West Ham United’s threats.
Having rested a few players in the goalless draw with Brighton, Tuchel is likely going to pick the strongest eleven he could think of for the trip to the London Stadium.
Obviously, Chelsea also have a Champions League semi-final match against Real Madrid on Tuesday that might affect Tuchel’s team selection, but as a top-four spot will be at stake against West Ham.
Tuchel has confirmed that Edouard Mendy will be back in goal, having given Kepa Arrizabalaga a start as a “reward” in midweek.
Thiago Silva and N’Golo Kante who did not feature against Brighton are likely going to be back in the starting line-up as well.
Ben Chilwell seems to have cemented his spot as the first-choice left wing-back recently.
However, given how Tuchel spoke about West Ham’s set-piece threats, Marcos Alonso whose height might prove useful might start ahead of Chilwell to deal with those threats.
Mount to return to attacking role
In midfield, Mason Mount had to play a deeper role alongside Jorginho against Brighton. But it was pretty apparent that the team missed his presence in the final third.
Kante’s return will allow Mount to slot back into the front three, although Jorginho will have to start again despite playing two full 90 minutes in the last week.
For the No.9 role, Tuchel has hinted that Tammy Abraham might finally be back in the matchday squad, having praised his performances in recent training sessions.
Abraham is likely going to the bench, however, and either Kai Havertz or Timo Werner, who have been the two main striker options in recent weeks, will start instead.
Predicted Chelsea 3-4-3 line-up
Mendy
Azpilicueta – Silva – Rudiger
James – Kante – Jorginho – Alonso
Mount – Havertz – Pulisic
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