Chelsea v Tottenham Hotspur: Preview, Predicted XI, Team News | Carabao Cup 2018-19
Chelsea and Tottenham go head-to-head once again this season, this time in the second leg of the Carabao Cup.
The Blues, who have been blowing hot and cold in recent weeks due to major scrutiny over Eden Hazard's position, N'Golo Kante's misuse and predictable tactics, will have to turn around a 1-0 deficit in order to storm into the final, where Manchester City wait.
Spurs, on the other hand, are one of the most formidable sides in the land but being beset with injuries at the moment, the contest is wide open. Having beaten Chelsea three times in a row now, including twice this term, the Lilywhites will be aiming to beat their bitter rivals for the fourth game running. They last did so way back in 1963.
Meanwhile, Chelsea haven't lost consecutive home fixtures against Spurs in all competitions since March 1982. To preserve their record, Maurizio Sarri and co. will be banking on their talisman Eden Hazard, who has been involved in six goals directly this season in the cup.
On that note, here's your team news and predicted XI.
Team news
Chelsea
The talk of the town, Gonzalo Higuain, is not expected to feature as his loan move wasn't completed within the anticipated time.
While Ruben Loftus-Cheek remains a casualty, Eden Hazard could again start as a false nine, much to the frustration of many Chelsea supporters. Else, Olivier Giroud will lead the line.
Other choices will be between Mateo Kovacic and Ross Barkley, Willian and Pedro. (should Giroud start)
Tottenham
Not all has been sorrowful for Spurs' medical room, as Moussa Sissoko, Lucas Moura and Victor Wanyama are back in training. However, the latter is not expected to be involved.
Heung-Min Son is out for national duty, while star players Harry Kane and Dele Alli are sidelined.
Probable line-ups
Chelsea (4-3-3): Arrizabalaga; Azpilicueta, Rudiger, Luiz, Alonso; Kante, Jorginho, Kovacic; Pedro, Giroud, Hazard
Tottenham Hotspur (3-4-3): Lloris; Alderweireld, Sanchez, Vertonghen; Trippier, Dier, Winks, Davies; Eriksen, Llorente, Lamela