Chelsea’s Predicted XI: We predict Frank Lampard’s starting XI as Chelsea face-off against Manchester United in the FA Cup semi finals

Chelsea’s Predicted XI: We predict Frank Lampard’s starting XI as Chelsea face-off against Manchester United in the FA Cup semi finals.

The Blues have shown some pretty inconsistent form of late in the hunt for Champions League football, but have proven that they are capable of beating any side.

One of their biggest rivals for top four football is their opponent at 6pm this evening making tonight’s game a real classic.

It’s hard to separate the two teams in a one-off game, although Chelsea’s opponents are probably going into the game with better form.

Chelsea boss Lampard has a difficult decision on his hands as he would love to get his hands on some silverware, but their next two Premier League games against Liverpool and Wolverhampton Wanderers are also vitally important.

So what team will Lampard pick to try and overcome United. Here we predict the Chelsea boss’ XI…

Goalkeeper: Lampard has named back-up goalkeeper Willy Caballero in almost every FA Cup game and we expect the Argentine to start in tonight’s fixture.

Defenders: Chelsea’s back four performed pretty poorly away to the Blades a week ago, but managed to keep a clean sheet at home to Norwich in the’r last outing. Lampard will know whoever he chooses will have their work cut out with United’s front three in frightening form. We expect him to name, Cesar Azpilicueta at right back, with Marcos Alonso on the other side and Antonio Rudiger partnering Kurt Zouma in the middle.

Midfielders: Lampard has many options in the midfield with six or seven quality players to choose from. Jorginho has found himself back in the team and we expect him to start again tonight. Ross Barkley will be hoping to replace Matteo Kovacic and start tonight’s fixture. That leaves Mason Mount who is returning from injury to make up the midfield trio.

Forwards: With 4-3-3 Lampard’s preferred formation, it seems a straight fight between Tammy Abraham and Olivier Giroud for the lone frontman spot. We believe Olivier Giroud will start ahead of Abraham given his recent goals. Christian Pulisic will be rested for Callum Hudson-Odoi with Willian on the other flank.

Predicted XI: Kepa; Azpilicueta, Rudiger, Zouma, Alonso: Jorginho, Barkley, Mount; Hudson-Odoi, Willian, Giroud.