After picking up three important points against Fulham on Saturday, the Blues gear up to face Swindon town on Tuesday in a third round game of the Capital One Cup which also is the first domestic cup action for Chelsea.
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho received immense criticisms for holding back Juan Mata and David Luiz in the Cottager’s match. But in an interview with the Daily Telegraph, Mourinho disclosed that the pair shall definitely feature in the team against Swindon. “The people who didn’t play today are going to play. Juan [Mata] and David Luiz and Michael Essien, [Ryan] Bertrand and [Cesar] Azpilicueta.”
If this is to be believed, then the starting XI starring in the match against Swindon may be like this:
Juan Mata:
A capable attacking midfielder who can play as a winger (Mourinho wants him to play there) with equal expertise. A much pivotal pick as Chelsea’s playmaker at the hour.
Mark Schwarzer:
One of the most capped players of Australia, with an interesting track record Mark Schwarzer is a great option for the team at this juncture. There can be no second question about his selection.
Ryan Dominic Bertrand:
Coming as a substitute for Ashley Cole on April 1st, 2013 Ryan Bertrand has only sparingly featured for the Blues. He has the qualities to go onto become one of the best left backs in the country. Dertrand has delivered some superb performances in his earlier matches and is a good pick for the team at this stage.
Cesar Azpilicueta Tanco:
This Spanish player is a paramount part of Chelsea and is known to have a lot of energy, a good defence and the attacking instinct. This right back player has a huge role to play for his side in the set-off against Swindon.
Frank Lampard:
This may just be the final season for the legendary midfielder at his beloved club and that may just be the deciding factor to keep the England star motivated to end the season with some ultimate grandeur.
Branislav Ivanovic:
One of the most versatile players of the side who has attracted wows with his all-round gaming abilities. Apart from being a marvelous defender he can also function as a right full back or as a right sided center back with equal poise. A very indispensable player for the team indeed.
Gary Cahill:
The English footballer is the central defender for the team. But at the call of the hour he can also assume the role of right back, left back and defensive midfielder. Although things did not go his way so far in the League, however on account of his pace, technical ability, and occasional finishing excellence, with a strength in headers, Gary Cahill remains as a vital option in the standing XI.
Kevin De Bruyne:
Another promising sportsman for the Blues. Bruyne can function both as an attacking midfielder or winger for the team and Mourinho would rely on the youngster going out and delivering for his team.
Willian:
The Brazilian is a very impressive attacking midfielder and having him in the team would definitely be a good alternative as the young fellow has huge potential and to rise and shine.
Demba Ba:
The problem with Chelsea time and again has been with the strikers, as they fail to tune up with proficient midfielders. After the dismal performance from their strikers against Fulham, chances are high that Demba Ba may be called on to take on as the striker and stand up for the team when duty calls upon him.
Michael Essien:
Lovingly known as ‘The Bison’, Michael Essien is touted to be a box-to-box midfielder for his ability to exert energy while playing offensive as well as defensive and for his robust tackling ways. Essien can also play as a defender on the right of defence and in the centre. With huge potential and capabilities this man can be a great performer for the team and shine.