Chelsea Strongest Line-Up Versus Stoke; Ivanovic Returns

Chelsea face Stoke City at the Britannia stadium later today and the Blues will be looking to keep the momentum going with a victory over the Potters.

Boss Jose Mourinho will serve his stadium ban and so will not be in the dug-out for the game. However, the Portuguese has stated he will still be in charge of team tactics and everything involving the match.

The Blues must be at full strength in order to come out victorious in the encounter and also rise up from the 15th position where they currently lie in the Premier League.

Hence, this is how we believe Chelsea will line up at the Britannia.

Goalkeeper

Asmir Begović: The Bosnian goalkeeper should start in goal for the Blues and, this will be the second time he will be facing his former side. Begović has stepped in goal for the Blues since the injury suffered by Thibaut Courtois and the 25-year old has performed admirably, but his performances has only been overridden by some shambolic defending from Chelsea defenders.

Defence

The Blues’ back four should consists of Kurt Zouma, John Terry, Gary Cahill and Cesar Azpilicueta. Cahill was a late minute substitute for Chelsea in the midweek Champions League victory over Dynamo Kiev, but the former Bolton Wanderers defender should get the nod to start in central defence alongside John Terry today.

However, Azpilicueta is set to be returned to his makeshift left-back role, with Zouma playing at right-back – although Branislav Ivanovic, who only returned from injury recently, could also start in that position.

Midfield

Nemanja Matic is to keep his place in the Blues’ midfield after a brilliant performance against Dynamo Kiev, and Ramires should also start alongside the Serbian. Both will be handed the task of killing off the threats of the likes of Charlie Adam and co.

Willian Borges should also assume duties from the Blues right wing against the Potters, as the Brazilian has been Chelsea best player so far this term – with his brilliant free-kick earning Jose Mourinho’s men the important victory against Dynamo. Also, Eden Hazard will likely start from the left wing against Stoke – having capped an impressive cameo against the Russian in midweek.

Cesc Fabregas could also get the nod to start behind the lone striker, with the Spain international showing signs of improvement against Dynamo on Wednesday.

Forward

Diego Costa will start for the Blues once again, despite the fact the Brazil-born striker is struggling for form this term. Costa was handed a couple of clear chances to score against Dynamo on Wednesday, but the 27-year old fluffed them all and his struggles continue.

The Spain international will have to be at his best to inflict defeat on Stoke and help Chelsea clinch another important three points.