Frank Lampard dellvered a masterclass to beat Jose Mourinho at the weekend, carving Tottenham like a Christmas turkey. The Blues’ boss now has decisions to make ahead of today’s clash with Southampton at Stamford Bridge. The festivities start at 3pm (GMT)
Predicted lineup
Formation 3-4-3
Goalkeeper,defenders and wing-backs
With so many games in quick succession, it will come as no surpise if Lampard rings the changes. Afterall there’s another big London derby coming up on Sunday with a trip to the Emirates.
Kepa will be buoyed by his cleansheet on Sunday, and keep his place. The formation will be a huge talking point ahead of today’s game. Lampard surprised many by employing a 3-4-3 at Spurs. I think it’s important the Blues legend keeps that continuity for now. The three centre-backs are likely to stay unchanged. Kurt Zouma, Antonio Rudiger, and Fikayo Tomori were excellent in North London, and will improve further by playing together once more.
Marcos Alonso made a surprise return to action, and to his credit did a great job on the left-hand-side. Even so I suspect Emerson Palmieri may get a chance to prove himself today. The same goes on the right. Reece James will be itching to play in this system, and showcase his attacking ability.
Midfielders
Mateo Kovacic picked up a yellow card following a clash with Dele Ali on Sunday. That card mean a he’s suspended from today’s fixture, after axumulatng five-bookings this season. In what is effectively two central midfielders within the system, Jorginho will return to play alongside N’Golo Kante.
Front three
Willian put in his best performance of the season at Tottenham. Mason Mount was also in top-form, covering ground, and being at the forefront of Chelsea’s attacks. It would be a very difficult decision to drop either of them, but Lampard has to look at the bigger picture. Mount has had a rest recently, meanwhile Willian has been a regular. For that reason I suspect Christian Pulisic will be given a return on the left-wing, with Mount continuing on the right. Tammy Abraham will start in his usual role in the middle, as he attempts to add to his 13-goals this season.
Blue is the colour
