Chelsea should have few problems reaching the fourth round of the FA Cup on Saturday afternoon when they host Morecambe, who are struggling in League Two.
The fourth division side are currently 23rd at the halfway point of the season and could suffer a heavy defeat at Stamford Bridge. Their last and only away game against Chelsea ended in a 4-0 defeat during the 2020/21 FA Cup third round.
Enzo Maresca will use this weekend’s game as an opportunity to rest and rotate, with Chelsea’s second-string XI more than capable of destroying Morecambe. The Italian is likely to field a line-up similar to the one he uses in the Conference League, with Marc Guio, Tyrique George and Josh Acheampong among the youngsters who could get further opportunities.
Here’s how Chelsea could arrange.
GK: Filip Jorgensen – Robert Sanchez remains first choice despite some questionable performances this season, with Jorgensen largely restricted to cup outings. The summer signing will expect a quiet afternoon against Morecambe.
RB: Josh Acheampong – Acheampong played as a central defender against Crystal Palace and impressed during the 1-1 draw. He is likely to feature again this weekend and could play in his preferred right-back role.
CB: Axel Disasi – The French defender has rarely appeased the Chelsea fans since arriving in England and Acheampong was better than him at centre-back last time out. Disasi does not appear to have a long-term future under Maresco.
CB: Tosin Adarabioyo – The former Fulham centre-back hasn’t had the most convincing starts since moving across west London, but should be starting as Chelsea rotate. Injuries to Benoit Badiashile and Wesley Fofana only increase his chances of featuring.
LB: Renato Veiga – Veiga’s versatility has come in handy this term and the 21-year-old is likely to be used at left-back as Ben Chilwell looks to organize a January transfer.
DM: Sam Rak-Sakyi – The young midfielder has now made a handful of appearances in the Conference League and the likely absence of Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall could see him make a second start for the Blues.
DM: Romeo Lavia – With a January release on the cards for Cesare CasadeiLavia can start at the base of midfield, even if it’s just to ensure Chelsea get into a comfortable position.
RW: Noni Madueke – Pedro Neto started against Palace while Madueke was relegated to the bench. The Englishman has been hit-and-miss this season, but will be excited at the prospect of punishing a leaky League Two defence.
AM: Christopher Nkunku – Nkunku did not make a significant impact against Ipswich Town in his last Premier League start and Nicolas Jackson remains ahead of him in the standings. This is a good opportunity to prove to Maresca that he has what it takes to play as a number 10.
LW: Tyrique George – The 18-year-old has been widely used in Europe and has started three of the last four away games in the Conference League.
ST: Marc Guiu – After impressing with his performances in the cup competitions, Guiu will get another chance to lead Chelsea’s team. The impressive young striker for the Blues scored six in 11 games.
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