After a major London derby victory over Spurs, Chelsea went into the Champions League round-of-16 first leg against Bayern Munich at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday night. The Blues struggled to get all three points in previous games and a win would have certainly helped to boost their confidence ahead of this tie. However, that was not the case, as they lost 3-0 at home.
Lampard’s side is already out of the title race in the Premier League and are fighting to qualify for the Champions League next term. They are only three points ahead of Manchester United in fourth.
Though there are some big injury concerns. Arguably their best player in the squad N’Golo Kante is out of the team with injury. Christian Pulisic and Callum Hudson-Odoi were also ruled out confirmed in the pre-match press meeting by Frank Lampard, prior to the first leg.
So here is the playing eleven that might feature, as Chelsea look to overturn this tie-
Willy Caballero – The Argentine is currently the first-choice keeper for Lampard’s side as their record signing Kepa Arrizabalaga has been poor in goal.
Cesar Azpilicueta (c) – The captain is one of the first names in defence, in any of Lampard’s formation he will start.
Antonio Rudiger – Last game was unfortunate for the centre back to score an own goal right at the death against Spurs. The shot was deflected off his feet where he couldn’t do anything about it. But his defensive ability is a must in the back-line.
Andreas Christensen – One of the Chelsea youth team graduates who emerged in the Blue’s first team. He has looked good in recent times. He has been starting games in recent times and might once again do the same in this key fixture.
Emerson Palmieri – Alonso go sent off in the 83rd minute of the first leg against Bayern, which just added to his team’s misery. With the Spaniard missing this crucial match, it might be Emerson’s turn to step up and do his job.
Reece James – Possibly the best player in form for Chelsea currently is this 19-year-old academy graduate. He puts in some dangerous balls with his accurate crossing ability. That is from the right flank is needed and he will be starting.
Read More: Replacing Another Blues’ Boss At Stamford Bridge; What Next?
Jorginho – The one-touch passing of the Italian is irreplaceable at the moment. In the centre of the midfield, he is arguably one of the best players in the league.
Mateo Kovacic – With Jorginho, Kovacic is making a strong partnership in the middle of the pitch. This combination is going to be a big factor in the tie as Bayern are also a good passing side.
Mason Mount – The 20-year-old was outstanding in the words of his boss Lampard. This was after the last game. With Hudson Odoi and Pulisic out injured, Mount can start in attack.
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/62955305/1090302356.jpg.0.jpg)
Willian – The Chelsea veteran was rested last Saturday. He was a late substitute against Spurs. He will start in the wings.
Olivier Giroud – The 34-year-old Frenchman gave a Man Of The Match display. That was after his goal in the London derby. His link-up play and movement in the top of the attack certainly give a focal point for Chelsea. With Batshuayi out of form, Tammy coming after an injury, Giroud can start.
Chelsea’s possible XI vs Bayern Munich
(3-4-3) – Willy Caballero, Cesar Azpilicueta, Antonio Rudiger, Andreas Christensen, Emerson Palmieri, Reece James, Jorginho, Matteo Kovacic, Willian, Mason Mount, Olivier Giroud.
