Thomas Tuchel is overseeing his fourth game at the helm of Chelsea as he takes his side at Bramall Lane to face Sheffield United.
The hosts are still stuck at the foot of the Premier League table but appear more confident after winning three of their last five league games. Recently, Chris Wilder’s men notably shocked Manchester United at Old Trafford, before losing narrowly to Manchester City and beating relegation rivals West Brom last time around.
Chelsea are also entering the game in good form since Tuchel’s appointment. A very lackluster 0-0 draw started his reign, but Tuchel saw his players win twice on the rebound against Burnley and Tottenham, and they have yet to concede a goal under the German.
Here is the team which could start to continue its good race.
Édouard Mendy (GK) – The Senegalese has retained his number one status under Tuchel, and will certainly leave on Sunday night.
Cesar Azpilicueta (CB) – Has been playing brilliantly lately and seems to be thriving since the new manager arrived. A starter guaranteed to the right of a back three.
Andreas Christensen (CB) – Thiago Silva has taken a hit against Spurs, so the Dane appears in line for his seventh league outing of the season.
Antonio Rudiger (CB) – The German didn’t miss a minute of the Tuchel era, helping to keep three successive clean sheets.
Reece James (RWB) – The 21-year-old played well against Spurs last time around, completely three key passes and generally looks dangerous on the outside.
Jorginho (CM) – The Italian is another player who has entered the squad under Tuchel, and he seems to be reveling in his role as a deep playmaker. Scored the recent winner against Spurs from the penalty spot.
N’Golo Kante (CM) – Rotation may be the key to keeping Chelsea running smoothly, so N’Golo Kante could have the opportunity to secure his first start under Tuchel at the expense of Mateo Kovacic.
Ben Chilwell (LWB) – Marcos Alonso has done exceptionally well since coming back to the side, but again his missing leg support minutes. This could allow Chilwell to return to his place.
MOTM
O
U
NOT
T? https://t.co/UdTG7oW0we pic.twitter.com/fxH2XfkiAe
– Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) February 5, 2021
Callum Hudson-Odoi (RF) – Tuchel appears to be making the most of Hudson-Odoi, and his good form could continue to keep Christian Pulisic and Hakim Ziyech sidelined.
Mason Mount (CF) – A regular starter under Lampard and now Tuchel, Mount looked superb against Tottenham – diving deep down center and running like a false nine. His creativity and intelligence keep Chelsea going.
Timo Werner (LF) – Has only one goal in his last 18 appearances for Chelsea, but appears to be gaining confidence under Tuchel. Desperately need a goal.