We should give the excellent Guus Hiddink time to get settled in before the critical analysis begins but Chelsea were worryingly toothless in their game against Manchester United in the last round of fixtures.
Yes, Chelsea were without a recognised number 9. But they still had enough quality in their side to scare a crisis torn Manchester United much more than they did.
Too much respect was afforded a team on the ropes.
And a trip to a buoyant Crystal Palace won’t be any easier for the new Chelsea boss this weekend.
The Eagles are flying high in fifth position right now and, if anything, they are getting stronger.
But Chelsea will have Costa available after suspension and should be able to welcome at least one of Loic Remy and Radamel Falcao back after injury – this will give the team more of a focal point up top.
Willian has to play. Hazard has to play. And Hiddink has used Pedro generously since taking over so we can perhaps expect another start from him, unless the more specialist Oscar is used at number 10.
With all this in mind, here is our strongest Chelsea XI for tough away encounter.
Chelsea fans: let’s have your elevens
olusolajulius
Jan 1, 2016 at 12:16 am
Comment:
Nice formation but I will like u to used 2 striker with d combination of Remy and Costa.