The Chelsea fans in the Transfer Tavern are expecting a pretty dominant win against Stoke City on Saturday…
The Blues are, somehow, still continuing their fantastic run of form – with Antonio Conte’s men currently embarking on a 12 game winning streak.
A 3-0 win against Bournemouth on Boxing Day ensured that their run would continue for at least another week – with Stoke City next in line to face the Blues.
Mark Hughes, a former Chelsea man himself, will undoubtedly be well aware of the challenge that awaits him – and with Conte’s men flying high – the Blues will be expected to comfortably win the game.
The Potters have been going well this season, though, and Hughes will surely have one or two tricks up his sleeves to try and pull off a surprise result – and Conte must be aware of that.
The Italian needs to pick the right team for the job, and the Chelsea fans in the Transfer Tavern think that this could be Conte’s rock solid Chelsea XI to wipe the floor with Stoke City on Saturday…
GK – Thibaut Courtois
Thibaut Courtois has been a constant under Conte this season, and that won’t change against Stoke.
He is the backbone for this side.
CB – Cesar Azpilicueta
Cesar Azpilicueta has been a consistent performer in this team, and despite moving from a more natural position on the flank – he has made the centre of the defence his own in recent weeks.
Mr Consistent.
CB – Gary Cahill
Gary Cahill is the captain of this team, and after a shaky few weeks at the start of the season – he has rebounded magnificently.
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CB – David Luiz
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He has, arguably, been Chelsea’s player of the year so far – and that will no doubt continue going forward.
A surprise star in this team.
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Marcos Alonso has struggled at points this season, but for the most part, he has been solid.
Expect more rampaging forward runs.
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Cesc Fabregas has regained a foothold in this team, and you would hope that that will continue going forward.
He offers a midfield dynamism that nobody else can.
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Back from suspension, Kante will likely slot right back into this team.
Matic did well in his absence, but Kante is simply superior to the Serbian.
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Victor Moses has been a breakout star under Antonio Conte this season, and with good reason.
It makes you wonder why he hasn’t been given a chance under previous managers.
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Eden Hazard was excellent at the weekend, and you would expect a repeat performance against Stoke on Saturday.
ST – Diego Costa
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Expect a goal.
RW – Willian
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He has been good this season, and he could make the spot his own going forward.
