Predicted XI: Enzo Maresca makes big Acheampong and Estevao calls to face Reds | OneFootball

The press conference is done, the team is making their final preparations for the game – it’s time to think up a predicted XI.

Enzo Maresca’s predicted team to play Liverpool

Robert Sanchez throws a ball. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)

We know who’s missing, more or less, and we know who’s back. Robert Sanchez will be in goal, Reece James should return from a midweek rest to play at right back, with Marc Cucurella soldiering on on the left.

In the middle is where it gets interesting, with so many players injured or suspended. Benoit Badiashile came through Tuesday night unscathed, so we imagine he’ll be in the mix. Alongside him, Enzo Maresca could go with Josh Acheampong or Jorrel Hato. Given he doesn’t quite seem to trust Josh, we reckon he goes with the Dutchman.

In midfield, we hear from the coach that Romeo Lavia is fit to play. If he’s fit to start, he will play with Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo.

Then the front 3 – Joao Pedro will hopefully be fresh after getting almost all of Tuesday off to lead the line. Pedro Neto is undroppable at the moment. We hope to see Estevao on the other wing, at home with a point to prove. But we can also see the ever conservative Maresca keeping the Brazilian in reserve and starting with Alejandro Garnacho too.

Game could turn gritty as teams look to keep it tight

This Chelsea team has some obvious weaknesses. We’re reduced to desperation in starting a half fit Badiashile and Lavia. Enzo and Caicedo have been run into the ground in recent weeks, but have no suitable alternatives.

Up front, Joao Pedro is struggling after playing so much, and has no Cole Palmer to give him ammunition.

This could be a really tight, scrappy game with Chelsea looking to just keep scores low and try to nick it late on.