Chelsea have a lot to look forward to as Guus Hiddink’s first real game as a manager is about to begin. Even though he was already in charge against Sunderland, it is only today when we will see what impact his arrival had on the way the team behaves on the pitch. Watford who are 7th in the Premier League with 10 points ahead of the Blues, will be a tough nut to crack given their hot streak. The Hornets are looking to get their 5th win in 5 consecutive games. Hopefully the Dutchman’s arrival and the week spent conducting training sessions will be enough to overcome the strong morale Watford have built up during the past couple of weeks.
Let’s take a look at where the lot stands and what changes will be made. Apparently Hiddink gave everyone the chance to start over which might also include players sent on loan by Mourinho, but that is something to talk about in 2016. For now, it is expected that the lot stays pretty much the same with some slight changes in formation. There are two things that may stand out regarding changes in line-up: Zouma replacing Cahill and Mikel being given more time on the pitch.
One aspect needs to be taken into consideration though when it comes to the Watford line-up – Chelsea are facing Manchester United on Monday and that may affect the way the team looks later on in the day. For example, Baba Rahman and Loftus-Cheek could be sent on against Watford in order to rest Fabregas and Terry. Remy could also make an appearance and give Costa the chance to be 100% against United who is a team to beat after seeing the atmosphere at Old Trafford and the tension LVG has shown during his last press conference. If there are no worries regarding the players’ stamina and overall physical and mental state, then Chelsea should be going with:
Courtois, Azpilicueta, Terry, Zouma, Ivanovic, Fabregas, Matic, Hazard, Oscar, Willian, Costa is likely to be replaced by Loic Remy (Remy – because Costa will be suspended if he picks up a card against Watford)