Chelsea FCa s disastrous start to the season has raised serious doubts around manager Jose Mourinho, but the Blues will look to put behind everything as they defend their Capital One Cup title against Stoke City.
Injuries and loss of form has wrecked havoc on Chelsea FC, as they look to make amends to their poor start with a victory over Stoke City at the Britannia Stadium in the fourth round of the competition
Chelsea FC, despite their slow start, have a realistic chance of a trophy in the Capital One Cup and Mourinho isna t likely to let it blow up in his face. Chelsea FC are expected to lineup with a strong first eleven against Stoke City, who suffered their first defeat in five games on the weekend against Watford.
Absence of Matic .
The Serbian had been ever present last season along with Eden Hazard, and the loss of form for the duo has been seen as the prime behind Chelseaa s slow start. Matic had slowing been regaining his sparkling form but the double yellow card against West Ham United in the weekend, which will lead to suspension, is set to delay the process once again.
The absence of Nemanja Matic will open up a spot in the midfield for the youngster Ruben Loftus-Cheek, who will have an opportunity to stake his claim for a spot in the starting eleven.
Shuffle in Defence
Mourinho, throughout the season, has been forced to make multiple changes in defence for various reasons, but looks to have finally found a settled back four combination. Branislav Ivanovica s injury has proven to be a boon in disguise with Azpilicueta returning to his favoured position as right back. Baba Rahman finally should be provided with a decent run of games as the left back.
Begovic, who has stepped up as the first choice goalkeeper after injury to Courtois, is likely to be rested for the cup tie with newly signed Marco Amelia likely to be given a chance to prove his worth.
