Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso aims to maintain his flawless home record as his side prepares to face Leeds United in the third round of the Carabao Cup this Wednesday night.
Despite suffering a 2-1 defeat to Arsenal in their recent Premier League encounter, Chelsea secured a victory in their opening home league match against Brighton & Hove Albion and claimed a win against Luton Town in the cup at Stamford Bridge earlier this season.
Here, we outline the predicted lineup that Alonso might choose for the visit of the Whites.
Goalkeeping Choice
Mike Penders made an impressive senior debut for Chelsea in the last round against Luton, managing to keep a clean sheet. With this solid performance, the Belgian goalkeeper is set to start again, although Emiliano Martinez remains Alonso’s preferred choice for Premier League fixtures.
Defensive Lineup
In the defensive lineup, Alonso is expected to give Josh Acheampong another opportunity to shine after his commendable display against Arsenal. The young Englishman is poised for a significant season in west London. He may be partnered with Levi Colwill, who was relegated to the bench during Chelsea’s visit to The Emirates on Sunday.
Additionally, Maxence Lacroix, who has been a consistent starter for Chelsea this season, might be rested, paving the way for Wesley Fofana to step in alongside his defensive partner.
Midfield Dynamics
Considering Alonso’s inclination to deploy a back three with wing-backs, Pedro Neto could be granted a starting position on the right flank. The Portuguese winger made an impact against Arsenal, hitting the woodwork just before half-time and scoring in the previous league match against Brighton.
Valentin Barco is likely to make his return to the starting lineup in midfield, especially with both Moises Caicedo and Jordan Henderson unavailable due to injuries. It’s possible that captain Reece James may be rested, allowing fellow right-back Malo Gusto to step into midfield alongside Barco.
On the left side of midfield, Pep Chavarria is anticipated to get the nod after coming off the bench against Arsenal.
Forward Options
Alonso’s decision to start both Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers against Luton in the previous round raised eyebrows, but the duo might find themselves back on the bench for this match. Estevao, who contributed an own goal from the opposition in the last round, could earn a starting spot on Wednesday. Meanwhile, Jamie Gittens, whose only appearance this season was as a substitute against Luton, may also be given a chance to start.
Danny Welbeck made a notable debut by scoring the opener in the previous round and is expected to lead the attack once again, while Joao Pedro may be rested ahead of Chelsea’s upcoming Premier League fixture against Hull City on Saturday.
Predicted XI: Penders; Acheampong, Colwill, Fofana; Neto, Barco, Gusto, Chavarria; Estevao, Gittens, Welbeck.
