Strongest Chelsea line-up to play Hull City

After picking up a 2-0 away win at Derby County in the third round of the FA Cup, Chelsea travel yet again, this time to the KC Stadium to take on a formidable Hull City side, who failed to build on their 6-0 win against Fulham following up with a 0-2 reversal against Liverpool at Anfield.

Steve Bruce’s side will be looking to make amends, trying to dislodge Jose Mourinho’s travelling side, who currently sit third on the table. Chelsea’s indifferent season has perhaps gained momentum over the past few weeks as they racked up seven goals in all competitions in their last three matches. Chelsea currently sit in third, two points adrift of leaders Arsenal while Hull are tenth with 23 points after they got promoted to the Premier League this campaign. So can the Blues from Stamford Bridge garner yet another away win or will Hull produce yet another giant killing act? Here is Chelsea’s best possible line up to face the Tigers at their own den.

Goalkeeper

Mark Schwarzer started the Capital One Cup encounter against Derby County, which means Peter Cech will be back in action manning the away side’s goal. The Czech International will have to be aware of Hull’s attacking prowess, the same team which pumped six past a hapless Fulham side two weeks ago.

Defence

Branislav Ivanovic’s absence means Cesar Azpilicueta will start in the right back slot with Ashley Cole manning the left back position. Both the fullbacks need to be aware of Hull’s cutting wingers in the 3-5-2 tactical set up which will try to catch the Blues’ defence by overloading the midfield. John Terry and Gary Cahill are expected to play alongside each other in the heart of the defence, while David Luiz might be relegated to the bench.

Midfield

Mikel and Ramires will play as the double pivot in the middle of the park as Frank Lampard is ruled out through injury. David Luiz is yet another option in the central midfield spot, if Mourinho decides whether Ramires needs to attack more and provide more support to the triumvirate up front. Oscar, Hazard and Willian will play as the three behind the lone striker up front as Juan Mata continues his frustrating “bench career” on the sidelines. Expect Andre Schurrle to play a cameo role if required late in the game as Mourinho loves to change his system and is willing to take the risk if things are not going his side’s way.

Strike Force

Fernando Torres is expected to get the nod ahead of Samuel Eto’o after starting as a substitute in the FA Cup.