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Leicester City vs Chelsea predicted XI: No reasons to risk injuries

By Kee Min

LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 05: Frank Lampard, Manager of Chelsea looks on prior to the FA Cup Third Round match between Chelsea and Nottingham Forest at Stamford Bridge on January 05, 2020 in London, England. (Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 05: Frank Lampard, Manager of Chelsea looks on prior to the FA Cup Third Round match between Chelsea and Nottingham Forest at Stamford Bridge on January 05, 2020 in London, England. (Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images) /
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Mateo Kovacic of Chelsea in action during the Premier League match between Chelsea and Arsenal at Stamford Bridge, London on Tuesday 21st January 2020. (Photo by Jacques Feeney/MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Mateo Kovacic of Chelsea in action during the Premier League match between Chelsea and Arsenal at Stamford Bridge, London on Tuesday 21st January 2020. (Photo by Jacques Feeney/MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images) /

CM: N’Golo Kante

The Frenchman is in a bit of a weird position at the Stamford Bridge. While Kante is still a world-class player without a modicum of doubt, his role in the club has become muddled. With Chelsea becoming much more attacking and possessive, the central midfielder is forced further up the pitch, not able to utilize the core component of his game – mopping up in front of the backline and advancing it to more creative players.

Regardless of the role, Kante should be untouchable unless injured or suspended. He will start against his former club.

CM: Jorginho

The man who replaced Kante in a deeper role. The Italian has arguably been the most important player for Chelsea this season. Jorginho has been the best of both worlds, averaging 71.1 passes per game and 2.3 interceptions – both good enough for fourth in the league. He has been a crucial pivot between defense and attack, incredibly important in this much more advanced Frank Lampard tactics.

CM: Mateo Kovacic

The midfield fit is a bit of a concern. I feel like this team needs a more creative force in Mason Mount, but he’s been playing with a knock for a while and his performances have suffered because of it. Instead, we insert Mateo Kovacic, who has been sparking this season. While more suited as a deep-lying playmaker, the Croatian has also proven that he can play a more advanced role. Kovacic is averaging 2.6 dribbles per game, leading the team and eighth in the league (though the fact that Kovacic is leading the team in dribbles might spell a bigger problem).

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