For the Chelsea fans in the Transfer Tavern, no game is as high profile as one against Liverpool…
A modern day rivalry built upon success, games between the Reds and the Blues are often season defining – with games in both the Premier League and the Champions League proving vital in recent years.
For Chelsea, this game holds particular significance for a number of reasons. First and foremost, the Blues lost the reverse fixture earlier in the season – and whilst Antonio Conte’s side have drastically improved since then, the Italian will want to ensure that he is able to get one back on Jurgen Klopp.
Secondly, Chelsea are flying high at the top of the table – and with Liverpool a genuine title challenger this season, they simply cannot afford to drop 3 points to the Reds.
As a result, Antonio Conte will want to ensure that he picks his strongest team – with victory absolutely vital for the Blues…
GK – Thibaut Courtois
Thibaut Courtois has done well recently, and will surely want to impress after letting a couple in in the reverse fixture.
A decent performance is needed.
CB – Gary Cahill
The Chelsea captain has impressed over the last few weeks, and will need to put another decent performance in.
He popped up with a vital goal against Hull City – another one wouldn’t go amiss for the Blues.
CB – David Luiz
Chelsea shocked the world by resigning David Luiz, but what a signing he has been.
He has been vital this season.
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Always consistent in the middle of the park, Cesar Azpilicueta has impressed in central defence lately.
He’ll need to be on his game on Tuesday, though.
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Marcos Alonso has been very good lately, and has even popped up with a few goals.
A guaranteed starter.
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N’Golo Kante will need to be on fine form, given how impressive the Reds are offensively.
He struggled against Hull – he needs to pick himself back up.
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Nemanja Matic will likely come in for Cesc Fabregas, given the nature of the clash.
He has looked good this season, though he will need to be strong defensively.
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Victor Moses has been consistent this year, and will need to continue in that vein.
He has made the right wing-back spot his own this season, and will likely continue to impress.
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Eden Hazard has had a poor few weeks, but he can create a chance out of nothing.
Conte won’t hesitate to sub him off if he isn’t performing, but if there is any game in which the Belgian needs to turn up: this is it.
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Diego Costa seems likely to stay at Chelsea this month, and he will be vital for Chelsea’s title charge.
He has scored consistently this season and another one wouldn’t go amiss on Tuesday.
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Pedro has been stellar this year and should keep his place.
A real threat
