Frank Lampard is weighing up a significant gamble over whether to include Antonio Rudiger for only his second appearance since April 28 in Chelsea’s crucial Champions League showdown against Lille.
Rudiger has suffered knee and groin problems this term, but Lampard has struggled to plug a leaky defence which has kept just four clean sheets in all competitions this season and Rudiger’s return would be a boost if anywhere near his best.
The 26-year-old’s chances of inclusion were increased by news Fikayo Tomori will be missing due to a minor hip problem while in attack Olivier Giroud is still sidelined with illness.
Lampard is likely to recall Jorginho to the base of Chelsea’s midfield while he could look to freshen things up on the flanks with Callum Hudson-Odoi pushing to start.
Kepa Arrizabalaga was criticised for his poor performance in defeat at Everton last time out but the Chelsea goalkeeper will surely retain his place.
Chelsea possible XI (4-3-3): Kepa, James, Rudiger, Zouma, Azpilicueta; Kante, Jorginho, Kovacic; Willian, Abraham, Hudson-Odoi
