Alvaro Morata’s return to form could spring him into the starting eleven as Chelsea host Manchester United in a must-win match for the visitors.
Maurizio Sarri has been a happy man so far. And, in the lead-up to facing former Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho, who is currently struggling at Manchester United this season, the Italian spoke of the respect he had for the former boss and that Mourinho is likely to turn it around.
Kepa Arrizabalaga will continue in goal. But, it is the central defence that could have been a cause for worry for Maurizio Sarri. Antonio Rudiger has been preferred alongside David Luiz at the back and the former’s return from injury will be a huge boost for the Italian, who stated in his pre-match conference that the defender will likely be fit in time to feature on Saturday.
Rudiger wasn’t the only one mentioned. While the back four is likely to consist of Cesar Azpilicueta, David Luiz and Marcos Alonso along with the German international, Sarri highlighted on Andreas Christensen’s situation as well, stating that the Danish star will have to remain patient for now.
Coming to the midfield, Mateo Kovacic is also said to be fit in time to face Manchester United.
“Rudiger has done better in the last two days, like Kovacic. I think they will be able to play. I think in the first part of the season David and Antonio have played very well so it’s not easy to change. He [Christensen]’s very young. He has to improve but he’s a technical defender so he’s suitable for me and my way of football, in the future he will be able to play more often.”
The on-loan Real Madrid star will likely slot in beside N’Golo Kante and Jorginho in a midfield three that is quickly becoming one of the best midfield trios in the league, if not the world.
In attack, Eden Hazard’s place is etched in solid already. The Belgian has been in terrifying form and will hope to continue it against his former manager. Sarri threw his weight behind Hazard, claiming that the attacker has the ability to win the Ballon d’Or with Chelsea.
Pedro will likely get the nod ahead of Willian. But, the talking point will be the position upfront. Olivier Giroud has lodged the most assists in the Premier League so far this season. Alvaro Morata, on the other hand, is back among the numbers and perhaps, will likely be preferred over the Frenchman, who should come into the match later on.
