Callum Hudson-Odoi and Billy Gilmour have both got strong cases as they look to force their way into Frank Lampard’s starting line-up against Leicester City on Tuesday.
Chelsea’s 1-0 victory away at Fulham in their last Premier League outing gave plenty for food for thought, with winger Hudson-Odoi a surprise omission but making a compelling case for his inclusion against the Foxes with an impressive display off the bench.
The England international is set to start, with Christian Pulisic likely to miss out. Pulisic has not been at his best and Lampard is wary of manging the American winger, who has been severely affected by injuries since joining. Hakim Ziyech came off against Fulham, seemingly with Leicester in mind so should fill the other wide role.
Kai Havertz is another option, but Hudson-Odoi looks likely to get the nod.
Midfielder Gilmour has looked sharp following his return from injury. And with N’Golo Kante still out through injury and Jorginho and Mateo Kovacic not shining as a duo against Fulham, Gilmour’s more expansive style could well see him get the nod over Jorginho.
In defence Reece James is almost certain to come in to replace Cesar Azpilicueta at right-back and Antonio Rudiger’s steady display in the derby win means he is likely to have done enough to retain his place ahead of Kurt Zouma.
Thiago Silva’s presence is vital, but Lampard does have the option of partnering Zouma alongside Rudiger if he is concerned about veteran Silva playing twice in four days.
Up front Lampard has a real tough decision for the central role. Olivier Giroud seems the most obvious player to miss out against a side who leave more opportunities to run in behind, and Tammy Abraham’s impressive substitute appearance last week means he may have done enough to earn selection ahead of Timo Werner.
Predicted team v Leicester:
Mendy
James
Chilwell
Rudiger
Silva
Gilmour
Kovacic
Mount
Hudson-Odoi
Abraham
Ziyech