WHEN: Wednesday, August 21, 2013. 7:45 pm UK time.
WHERE: Stamford Bridge, London.
Chelsea's opening game of the season ended a win, three points were bagged. It was a solid performance especially in the first-half. On to the next match now...
Chelsea will play an Aston Villa side that just defeated Arsenal at home. Chelsea isn't Arsenal but they can't take Aston Villa for granted.
Jose Mourinho and his Chelsea army will want to make it six out of six to continue in their bid for a solid form at home an in the season in general.
TEAM NEWS
Jose Mourinho has ruled David Luiz out but he suggested that the Brazilian will be available against Manchester United next week. Juan Mata is fit to play this time according to the Mourinho. No other injuries with the exception of Tomas Kalas who will still be out for sometime.
I'm expecting to see this starting lineup...
I also have this feeling Jose could spring a tactical surprise and something similar to this may be seen.
Bench: Schwarzer, Cahill, Ramires, Kevin De Bruyne, Oscar, Bertrand, Lukaku,
Gary Cahill is a good defender but he's not the best to play against a fast and pacey side like Aston Villa. We all saw what Benteke did with him last season. Ramires and Frank Lampard played 90 minutes against Hull City on Sunday, both need to kept fit and fresh for the Manchester United game. Essien and van Ginkel earned the right to play during the preseason fixtures too.
I don't think Mourinho will fancy Hazard on the bench. If Chelsea can overpower Villa early and put the game beyond doubt Eden could be substituted early in the second-half with the Old Trafford clash in view.
Fernando Torres started against Hull City and Romelu Lukaku replaced him to get few minutes but Demba Ba didn't step on the pitch. I'm not a big fan of Demba Ba and that's why I think he should start against Aston Villa. If he doesn't play well then he can be taken off and we know who plays against Manchester United.
Selecting those to be on the bench is the toughest task now. Last season, we were lamenting lack of squad depth with likes of Benayoun and Marin around. Having many good players is never a bad thing if you want to challenge for trophies.
PREDICTION
Last time the two teams played, Frank Lampard was the hero as he scored two late goals to secure a win and seal a top four spot.
Aston Villa's last visit to the Bridge was a complete overhaul by Chelsea, they lost 8-0.
I predict a 3-0 scoreline in favour of Chelsea. The defence has looked solid and won't be gifting goals away this season. If Juan Mata starts too, Chelsea can be sure of creating more than enough goal-scoring chances.
Who would you like to start and who on the bench? Please use the comments section.
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