Cesar Azpilicueta (No. 28) Right centerback, Spain
Cesar Azpilicueta has been reliable in defence as always. He has had to play as a right wingback due to Reece James’ unfortunate injury. Considering Chelsea’s attacking woes, it would be suitable to start a more attack-minded player in that position at the weekend though. Hence, Azpilicueta returns to his favoured right centerback position. Azpilicueta will have to ensure that the Blues show a lot more energy and intent against Saints than they have done in the past week or so.
Andreas Christensen (No. 4) Centerback, Denmark
Thiago Silva started against Juventus and played over an hour against Manchester City. This means that he probably needs a rest, and Andreas Christensen can shift over to the central position. Christensen has played well on the right side of the back three. Juventus seemed happy to sit back in its own half and hence, Christensen wasn’t involved as much. He did seem to switch off for Federico Chiesa’s goal, but that seemed to catch the entire team by surprise. Other than that, he was calm, composed and looked good on the ball. Tuchel will hope that Christensen continues to do more of the same and keeps a clean sheet against Saints.
Antonio Rudiger (No. 2) Left centerback, Germany
Antonio Rudiger has played perhaps the best football of his career since Tuchel took over. He is a man in form and that confidence is visible in everything he does on the pitch. The German has put in some magnificent tackles in his half to thwart potential attacks or even goals. He doesn’t have a back-up in his position, and it is clear that Tuchel values him, and he has played every minute for Chelsea in the Premier League this season (the only player to do so). Recent reports suggest that the contract negotiations have not proceeded and Tuchel will have to start looking for a new player in that position if the situation continues. These off-field distractions should not impact his game, expect a strong performance against Southampton.
