Predicted XI

Jorginho back in - How Chelsea could line-up against Rennes

The Italy international was rested from the starting XI at the weekend but should be recalled for European duties

10:30am on Wednesday 4th November 2020
By Martin Macdonald

Frank Lampard is set to make a few changes to his starting XI when Chelsea host Rennes in the Champions League on Wednesday.

Against Burnley at the weekend, the Blues were mightily impressive, winning 3-0 away from home thanks to goals from Hakim Ziyech, Kurt Zouma, and Timo Werner.

After a slow start to his Chelsea career due to injury, the Moroccan has burst into life over the past couple of weeks and is starting to look the part for the Stamford Bridge side. Due to his form, expect him to start this one again.

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Christian Pulisic didn't feature at the weekend and is unlikely to do so against Rennes as he has picked up another hamstring problem.

Lampard could opt to play Werner out wide and have Tammy Abraham through the middle, but the more likely scenario is Jorginho being recalled and the attacking players being moved around slightly.

Kai Havertz started the Burnley game in a central midfield position but expect him to be moved slightly further up if Abraham drops to the bench, with Jorginho coming back into the starting line-up.

If he does start further up the pitch, Mason Mount could be deployed on the left to cut inside on his right foot.

Cesar Azpilicueta could be given the nod at right-back instead of Reece James.

Although Thiago Silva was rested for the last Champions League game in Russia against Krasnodar, he is in line to play this time as Chelsea are at home.