The League Cup final takes place this weekend between Chelsea and Liverpool, and all the talk pre-match will focus on whether or not Thomas Tuchel selects Romelu Lukaku.

In Lukaku's last match in which he started, he managed just seven touches in his entire time on the pitch against Crystal Palace.

He was subsequently left out of the starting XI for Chelsea's Champions League clash against Lille, with Kai Havertz coming in to impress in the centre-forward position.

It is likely that the German will retain his spot for the cup final.

Both Hakim Ziyech and Mateo Kovacic were forced off due to injury against Lille, and although they may be fit enough to feature against Liverpool, it might not be from the start. Mason Mount returned to the squad midweek, though, so he could come in.

Kepa Arrizabalaga could be given a start in place of Edouard Mendy in goal, with Andreas Christensen, Thiago Silva and Antonio Rudiger in defence.

Reece James could be involved, but Cesar Azpilicueta will probably start on the right, with Marcos Alonso in the left wing-back role.

With Kovacic struggling for fitness, it might be Jorginho and N'Golo Kante given the nod.

Mason Mount, Christian Pulisic and Havertz could start in the front three.

As for Liverpool, Jurgen Klopp's main concern is with regards to the centre-forward position.

Diogo Jota picked up an injury against Inter and is struggling to be fit by the time the final kicks off, while Roberto Firmino is a certain absentee.

Due to that, we'll probably see a fluid front three of Sadio Mane, Mohamed Salah and Luis Diaz. Mane may start through the middle, but expect the trio to continually swap around.

Caoimhin Kelleher will be given a start behind a back four of Trent Alexander-Arnold, Ibrahima Konate, Virgil van Dijk and Andy Robertson.

Jordan Henderson, Fabinho and Thiago will continue as the first choice midfield.

Preicted XIs: Chelsea v Liverpool