TheSportsRush brings Chelsea’s expected lineup vs Cardiff City as Maurizio Sarri’s side aims to continue the winning run this season.
Maurizio Sarri’s football philosophy, ‘Sarri-ball,’ has been well-adapted by Chelsea so far. They still look sloppy in defence, and Sarri needs to find a perfect balance for high-press and high-line.
After heading to the international break with a perfect record in the league, the Blues return to Stamford Bridge as they host Cardiff City. Cardiff faces a tough challenge in the Premier League, as four of their six upcoming games are against top-six sides of 2017/18 campaign.
They posed a tough fight against Unai Emery’s Arsenal, where they showed immense character in coming back twice into the match. However, they conceded a late goal to Alexandre Lacazette which made the difference in the end.
As Chelsea takes another step towards closing-in with Liverpool for the first position in the table, theSportsRush takes a look at their expected lineup.
Goalkeeper: Kepa Arrizabalaga
The Spanish new recruit has so far been solid for Chelsea, and is likely to continue in front of the goal.
Defence: Azpilicueta, Rudiger, Luiz, Alonso
Even though the defence has struggled with ‘Sarri-ball’ so far, the Italian manager would want his players to adapt to his philosophy and field the same defensive line-up against Cardiff City.
Also read: Premier League 2018/19: Manchester United’s expected lineup vs Watford
Midfield: Jorginho, Kovacic, Kante
N’Golo Kante seems to have assumed his new role quite efficiently in the middle of the pitch. The French midfielder, who played in a more defensive position under Antonio Conte, now makes penetrative runs into opposition’s half under Maurizio Sarri. With him, Jorginho and Kovacic make an effective midfield trio.
Forward: Willian, Morata, Hazard
Alvaro Morata could still keep his position as first-choice forward against Cardiff City. The Spanish forward may have not impressed the Blues so far, but Sarri might give him an opportunity in a relatively easier game. Willian and Hazard will continue on either wings.
EXPECTED LINEUP:
