Chelsea's starting XI for first game of the season

Jose Mourinho will have a tough time in keeping his rather-large squad happy

The football season is fast approaching and excitement is starting to build as the rumour mill goes into overdrive. For Chelsea fans this usually spells a great deal of activity, but what does this mean for the existing players and how will the side shape up for the next campaign?

After the additions of Andre Schuerrle and Marco Van Ginkel, the midfield has to be the most uncertain area of the pitch. Frank Lampard is likely to be rotated and the ‘Three Amigos’ are constantly fighting to solidify their place in the first team, so choosing a starting eleven could prove to be problematic for Jose Mourinho.

For me, the missing ingredient in the squad is pace. Eden Hazard is currently the only pacy player utilising the wings, but now Chelsea have the speed of Schuerrle, who can play on both sides. This could provoke the Special One to give the German regular playing time, which might see the likes of Oscar dropped to the bench.

Oscar in himself is another matter (no pun intended). He performed brilliantly in the final of the Confederations Cup, helping his side to a 3-0 victory over Spain. In a high-tempo game, Juan Mata failed to produce the same standard, which raises questions as to who should be in the middle of our attacking midfield.

Michael Essien is also making his return and based on the amount of playing time Mourinho gave him at Real Madrid. It seems likely that the Ghanaian will feature regularly. If that is the case, there could be repercussions for David Luiz who at the end of last season took to his new role in holding midfield. Mourinho will have to decide if the Brazilian is disciplined enough to be part of the back four, and that would subsequently lead to a reshuffle of the defence.

In terms of striking options, it’s anyone’s guess how it will shape up. Edison Cavani certainly seems to be the ideal option and the fans’ number one choice, but if they don’t manage to acquire his services they may have to consider other alternatives or even stick with the current three forwards.

Potentially there could two or three more signings before the start of the season, but this is what I think the starting eleven will look like.

Goalkeeper: Cech

Defenders: Ivanovic, Cahill, Luiz, Cole

Midfield: Essien, Lampard, Hazard, Oscar, Mata

Striker: Cavani/Likaku