Chelsea team news: Predicted line-up for Sunday’s London derby against Arsenal

Chelsea travel to London rivals Arsenal on Sunday as Frank Lampard’s side look to finish 2019 on a high. 

Frank Lampard’s first season in charge has been a successful one so far, as his Chelsea side find themselves in fourth position in the Premier League table.

However, Boxing Day saw them put in a below-par performance, suffering a 2-0 home defeat to Premier League strugglers Southampton.

With a big three points needed against an Arsenal side who have new manager Mikel Arteta in place, we predict Lampard’s starting XI.

GK: Kepa Arrizabalaga

Sometimes doesn’t get the plaudits he deserves, Kepa barely puts a foot wrong for Chelsea and is a fantastic shot-stopper.

RB: Reece James 

After missing out against Southampton we expect James to recover his place. What a revelation James has been, the young full-back has been given his chance by Lampard and he has grabbed it with both hands.

CB: Tomori 

 

Defensively will be where Lampard has his biggest decision to make ahead of the Arsenal clash. But we think he’ll stick with Tomori who has been a rock at the heart of the Chelsea defence for the majority of the season.

CB: Kurt Zouma

Been a regular under Lampard following many seasons away on loan from the London club. Zouma will hope to retain his place following a disappointing defensive display on Boxing Day.

LB: Cesar Azpilicueta

Known simply as ‘Dave’ amongst Chelsea fans, the club captain will be expected to find a place in the starting line-up whether that’s in a back three or four.

CM: N’Golo Kante

Rotation to ensure high freshness, just doesn’t seem to be a problem for N’Golo Kante, with the World Cup winner seemingly able to run all day long. They’ll need his tenacity in the derby.

CM: Mateo Kovacic

Having started the win over Tottenham and rested during the Boxing Day loss to Southampton, Lampard may feel Kovacic is a vital cog in the Chelsea midfield.

AM: Mason Mount

Mount has been a major part of Lampard’s fresh, young British-heavy Chelsea team. He has played a lot of minutes this season, but didn’t start the game against Southampton and will be expected to be called back into the starting 11 come Sunday.

RF: Willian 

Willian has been in and out of Lampard’s starting XI, but we expect the Brazilian to keep his starting place away at the Emirates on Saturday.

LF: Christian Pulisic 

The USA international took a while to get going in a Chelsea shirt, but has started to get amongst the goals in the last few weeks.

ST: Tammy Abraham 

Abraham has fully secured Chelsea’s number nine position ahead of Olivier Giroud and Michy Batshuayi. Lampard will be very happy to have the England international back in his side.