This post was originally published on this site.
Chelsea welcome Leeds United in the Carabao Cup third round at Stamford Bridge tonight.
The Blues suffered their first defeat of the campaign against Arsenal in the Premier League last weekend.
They will be aiming to return to winning ways, and manager Xabi Alonso could name a strong starting XI.
Formation: 3-4-2-1
Mike Penders made his debut in the Carabao Cup second-round win over Luton Town, and could get the nod between the sticks once more.
In front of him, there could be a change in the backline. Levi Colwill could come into the back three, with Wesley Fofana likely to make way.
Fofana has had his injury troubles and could be given a breather. Colwill could partner Josh Acheampong and Maxence Lacroix in central defence.
Meanwhile, we expect an overhaul in the wing-back department. Pep Chavarria should come in for Jorrel Hato in the left wing-back position.
Estevao showed plenty of promise as a right wing-back against Arsenal after replacing Pedro Neto. He almost scored a world-class equaliser.
The Brazilian wonderkid looks poised to start against Leeds.
In midfield, Valentin Barco could partner Romeo Lavia, with captain Reece James getting a breather. The Englishman’s workload needs managing given his injury record.
We don’t expect changes in the final third. Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers should feature as the playmakers with Joao Pedro leading the line.
Predicted Chelsea line-up (3-4-2-1) vs Leeds United: Penders; Acheampong, Lacroix, Colwill; Estevao, Barco, Lavia, Chavarria; Palmer, Morgan; Pedro.
