Liverpool FC face champions-elect in the Premier League later today and Manchester United’s win over Crystal Palace means that the Reds are all but out of the top 4 running. However, winning as many points before the end of the season remains Brendan Rodgers and his side’s objective so it would be interesting to see whether the Merseysiders can grasp a win over the Blues, after giving them a guard of honour.
Daniel Sturridge has been ruled out till September after undergoing a hip surgery, which means it could be till September when the England international makes a return to the side.
Mario Balotelli returned to training this week, having missed the win over QPR, and would be in contention to start the game.
Rickie Lambert started against QPR and performed reasonably well but it would be interesting for Rodgers to pick either one of Balotelli or Lambert given they’re not very pacey and could have a tough time against the rock solid Chelsea defence. Therefore Raheem Sterling could start up top as a false nine alone with Coutinho and Lallana right behind him.
It would also be interesting to see if Rodgers goes with a three man defence or puts two central defenders out there. In case of two defenders, Emre Can could be moved from the right-back position, where he looks so uncomfortable, into the midfield.
The midfield is likely to comprise Jordan Henderson and outgoing captain Steven Gerrard with two of Jordan Ibe, Lazar Markovic and Alberto Moreno on the wings.
Lucas Leiva is in contention but Mamadou Sakho remains sidelined with a hamstring injury.
Predicted Line-up (3-4-2-1): Mignolet; Can, Skrtel, Lovren; Ibe, Henderson, Gerrard, Moreno; Lallana, Coutinho; Sterling
