Chelsea FC's Predicted Starting Lineup 2016/2017

Chelsea FC’s Predicted Starting Lineup 2016/2017

(Top L-R) Chelsea's Bosnian goalkeeper Asmir Begovic, Chelsea's French defender Kurt Zouma, Chelsea's Serbian midfielder Nemanja Matic, Chelsea's English defender John Terry and Chelsea's Brazilian-born Spanish striker Diego Costa (bottom L-R) Chelsea's Brazilian midfielder Oscar, Chelsea's Spanish defender Cesar Azpilicueta, Chelsea's Ghanaian defender Baba Rahman, Chelsea's Spanish midfielder Cesc Fabregas, Chelsea's Brazilian midfielder Ramires and Chelsea's Brazilian midfielder Willian pose before a UEFA Chamions league group stage football match between Chelsea and Dynamo Kiev at Stamford Bridge stadium in west London on November 4, 2015. AFP PHOTO / GLYN KIRK (Photo credit should read GLYN KIRK/AFP/Getty Images) /

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Jun 17, 2014; Fortaleza, Ceara, BRAZIL; Brazil midfielder Willian (19) and Mexico midfielder Marco Fabian (8) race after a loose ball during the second half of their 0-0 tie in a 2014 World Cup game at Estadio Castelao. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports /

Willian

The Brazilian midfielder has been one of Chelsea’s most consistent performers this season. What makes him so special is his pace and work ethic both on and off the ball. It’s not just going forward when Willian shines. His ability to track back and work hard to win the ball back for the Blues is essential to their game.

While deployed as a winger, the 27-year-old is very effective when he comes inside. Therefore, playing him in the centre will allow him to drive the ball forward on counter attacks, give him the space to get wide, but also allow him to float inside and be effective there. This position will allow him more freedom than he normally has. Furthermore, he’ll often have to man mark a midfielder as well.

Willian’s pace and work ethic will be key to him flourishing him in this role. He’ll quickly become the engine behind Chelsea’s success.

Next: Left Centre Midfielder

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