How Chelsea could line up vs Sheff Utd with Thiago Silva an injury doubt but Kante back in contention after win vs Spurs
N’GOLO KANTE looks set to start his first game since January 3 for Sunday’s clash with Sheffield United – but Thiago Silva is unlikely to feature.
The Blues edged a 1-0 win at Tottenham on Thursday night thanks to a Jorginho penalty.
But Thomas Tuchel and Co suffered a blow after Silva limped off with a muscle injury in his right leg in the first-half.
Chelsea were given a boost as Kante came off the bench to make his return after over a month out.
And now the France midfielder is expected to replace Jorginho in the heart of the Blues’ midfield.
Edouard Mendy is certain to keep his place in goal, with Cesar Azpilicueta starting on the right of a central back-three.
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Azpilicueta is likely to be joined by Andreas Christensen – who replaced Silva on Thursday night – and Antonio Rudiger.
Kurt Zouma is expected to be fit following what Tuchel called a ‘minor’ injury, but is yet to feature under the new manager.
Reece James and Ben Chilwell are likely to occupy the wing-back roles – although Callum Hudson-Odoi excelled on the right-flank for the 2-0 win over Burnley.
Mateo Kovacic is set to start alongside Kante in the middle of the park, with Mason Mount almost certain to start as one of two attacking midfielders amid his hot run of form.
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However, Chelsea also have Kai Havertz, Hakim Ziyech, Christian Pulisic and Hudson-Odoi battling for minutes in those positions.
Havertz is expected to be fit again after a minor injury, but his dreadful start to life in England could see him start on the bench.
Timo Werner is expected to start up front, but his ice-cold run of form could see Tammy Abraham lead the line.
Olivier Giroud will also be keen to be given a shot, despite cooling off himself in recent weeks.
Chelsea travel to Sheff Utd in Sunday evening’s game, with kick-off at Bramall Lane 7.15pm.