Monday,
6 November,
Stamford Bridge,
London
When Chelsea take on Manchester United at the Old Trafford this weekend, Jose Mourinho who will be hoping he can avoid another 4-0 defeat in his second visit to Stamford bridge ever since he got sacked by the Blues, will not be able to call on the services of some key Manchester United players for the clash.
The good news for Chelsea fans is that Conte will be able to once again call upon N’golo Kante. A look at Chelsea tactical report whenever Kante is fit shows the Blues tend to do well when the Frenchman is playing. It is not a coincidence that their form dipped when Kante was missing in action.
Jose Mourinho is unfortunately going to be without the likes of Michael Carrick, Paul Pogba and Marouane Fellaini in midfield. The trio are suffering from one injury to the other and unless a miracle happens, none of them will be available for selection against Chelsea.
Jess Lingard who suffered what was reported to be a minor injury in last night’s 2-0 over Benfica could also be missing in action. According to reports, the young attacker will have to pass a late fitness match to decide if he will be involved in the important clash at Stamford bridge or not. This is aside long term absentees like Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Marcos Rojo.
The absence of th 25-year-old will be a massive blow for Jose Mourinho but for Conte it is good news. Aside the fact that Mourinho not being able to call upon some of his key players will be a big boost for Conte and his side, the Italian would be able to call upon N’golo Kante for the clash.
The Frenchman has missed the last three weeks of action due to injury. It was initially thought he would be involved yesterday when Chelsea played Roma away from home but it appears Conte preferred to rest the former Leicester City star and instead on leash him on United on Sunday.
Manchester United go into the match second on the Premier league table, four points more than Chelsea who are currently seated 4th on the Premier league.