Chelsea’s Predicted XI: We predict Frank Lampard’s starting XI as Chelsea travel to face Sheffield United in the Premier League

Chelsea’s Predicted XI: We predict Frank Lampard’s starting XI as Chelsea travel to face Sheffield United in the Premier League.

The Blues will be facing their first game outside of London for over two weeks, as they look to hold on to their slender third placed lead.

The chasing pack of Leicester City and Manchester United are just one and two points behind so Chelsea know any slip-up could prove costly.

After a nervy final period against Crystal Palace midweek, manager Frank Lampard will be desperate for his side to earn all three points against the Blades.

However, it’s sure to be a difficult afternoon as Chris Wilder’s side have gone back to their pre-lockdown form having gained seven points from their last three matches.

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

Goalkeeper: Despite being dropped by Lampard before lockdown, Kepa returned to the side and will be expected to keep his place again.

Defenders: Chelsea’s back four performed pretty poorly at home to Crystal Palace which will have given Lampard a selection headache. At the moment the Englishman could choose anyone across the back line, but we expect him to name,  Which will see  Cesar Azpilicueta at right back, with Marcos Alonso on the other side and Antonio Rudiger partnering Andreas Christensen in the middle.

Midfielders: Lampard has many options in the midfield with six or seven quality players to choose from. Jorginho is not playing as much football as he’ll like but he changed the game at Stamford Bridge midweek, so we expect him to start today. that leaves Ross Barkley and Mason Mount 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. With both players scoring in the week, Lampard has another tough decision on his hands, but we think he’ll pick Abraham for this evening’s encounter.

Predicted XI: Kepa; Azpilicueta, Rudiger, Christensen, Alonso: Jorginho, Barkley, Mount; Pulisic, Willian, Abraham.