Thomas Tuchel rings in major changes to his Chelsea side who take on city rivals Tottenham Hotspur in the first of the two-legged semi-final tie in the Carabao Cup.
The Chelsea boss resorts to a four-man backline for today’s game with summer signing Romelu Lukaku finding a place in the starting XI after his recent exclusion.
Kepa starts between the sticks
Edouard Mendy’s absence owing to the African Cup of Nations allows the second-choice goalkeeper Kepa to take over the gloves from the Senegalese and make the team sheet.
Antonio Rudiger retains his spot in the centre-back role but had a new partner in the young Frenchman Malang Sarr with both Trevoh Chalobah and Andreas Christensen sidelined.
Saul partners Jorginho in midfield
With N’Golo Kante missing from the matchday squad, Jorginho partners Saul Niguez in the heart of the midfield with Mason Mount also filling in.
In the final third, Romelu Lukaku operates in the central striking role with Kai Havertz and Hakim Ziyech slotting in the wide positions.
Here is how both teams line up for today’s Premier League fixture:
Chelsea FC XI
Your Chelsea team tonight. 🤝@ParimatchGlobal #CheTot pic.twitter.com/KRk3APL1px
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) January 5, 2022
Liverpool FC XI
Our team for tonight's Carabao Cup first leg against @ChelseaFC! 👇 pic.twitter.com/KraIUU2IfE
— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) January 5, 2022
