Chelsea could move to within one point of the top of the Premier League with victory against Sheffield United at Stamford Bridge this evening.
Frank Lampard’s side seem to have banished their defensive frailties in recent weeks and are on a five-match clean sheet run after questions were asked of the defensive unit in the early part of the season.
Lampard will certainly be without attack-minded midfielders Christian Pulisic and Kai Havertz for the visit of the Blades, although both could be in contention to return following the upcoming international break.
Last time out in the league, the Blues eased past Burnley whilst Chris Wilder’s men were beaten at home by Manchester City, although their last two performances against City and Liverpool have given the Yorkshire club reason for optimism.
Chelsea are only too aware of the threat posed by the visitors to Stamford Bridge. Lampard’s charges failed to beat the newly-promoted Blades on either occasion last season and were hammered 3-0 at Bramall Lane in July.
With all this in mind, here’s how we think Chelsea will line up, with the manager unlikely to be tempted from heavily tinkering with the team which beat Rennes on Wednesday night…
