It is no doubt a huge night for Frank Lampard and his team. A win against Valencia would put the club within touching distance of the last-16 of the Champions League.
Chelsea will no doubt be wary of the threat the Spanish side pose after losing 1-0 in the fixture at Stamford Bridge. The Blues cannot afford to lose this game, and it is crucial that the team selection is right.
Here is how they might line up:
Kepa Arrizabalaga
The Spaniard is likely to keep his spot in goal, despite receiving criticism from some fans in recent weeks. He will want to prove his worth on a big European night.
Reece James
Lampard has made no secret of his belief in James. After putting in a sublime performance in his first league start against Palace, Azpilicueta was preferred to him in the City game. It seems likely that the young full-back will be back in the starting line up against Valencia.
Fikayo Tomori
Tomori has been a revelation this year and is more than likely to keep his place.
Kurt Zouma
After a shaky start to the season, Zouma has come into his own in recent weeks and seems to be forming a great partnership with Tomori.
Emerson
Some fans were critical of the Italians performance against City at the weekend, but expect him to keep his place ahead of Marcus Alonso.
Jorginho
The man who proved all the doubters wrong. Jorginho is now one of if not the first name on the team sheet. He is crucial to the way Chelsea play.
Mateo Kovacic
Similarly to Jorginho, Kovacic has proved a lot of people wrong this year and put in some great displays, forming a formidable partnership with the Italian. He also provided a brilliant assist for Kante’s goal at the weekend.
Mason Mount
This one is tricky. Being left out in favor of N’Golo Kante is nothing to be ashamed of. Mount has been brilliant this season and with Kante’s recent injury struggles, Lampard might bring the Englishman back into the side against Valencia.
Willian
Another man who seems rejuvenated under Lampard. Willian has made the RW spot his own this season, and an experienced head could be crucial if things do not go to plan initially for the Blues.
Tammy Abraham
Despite Michy scoring the crucial winning goal against Ajax, Abraham remains Lampard’s first choice and has earned his spot for such a big game.
Christian Pulisic
The American’s recent form has been electric and although he had a quiet game against City, Lampard is likely to stick with him for the game under the Mestalla lights.
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