Maresca could be plotting selection change to make sure strong xG reflected in the table | OneFootball

We’re not even halfway through the international break yet, but all we can think about is Chelsea returning to action. The Blues are in good form and have some fascinating games coming up across 3 competitions when they come back to domestic action.

7 games into the Premier League season, we can already start to see some really interesting patterns emerging under Enzo Maresca.

The Blues have the second best xG in the league, which is a promising start. Their fixtures have been easier than some teams, but it’s still a great stat to see your team towards the top of. They’re racking up 2.06 xG per game this season, a step up from last season’s 1.96.

But it’s not all about the chances you create – Liverpool finished last season on a table topping 2.31 xG, and didn’t win the league. You’ve got to have the defence to back up those strong attacking numbers. So far we look solid on that front too – we’ve conceded 8 in the 7 games so far.

But that’s about to be tested heavily by the fixtures, and by the issues in our squad, with two of our regular back four set to be suspended for our next game – which is at Anfield.

Moises Caicedo’s heatmap after 6 games.

Maresca could plot surprise changes behind the scenes

That will be a big test for this group, as they look to consolidate a bright start against weaker teams with some impressive results against the big guns. Enzo Maresca is on the training pitch right now, scheming up how best to reshuffle things against the top sides.

We wonder if there will be a midfield tweak – Romeo Lavia is fit and ready again and will train with Maresca through this whole fortnight. Could we see the Belgian come into midfield for some of these games against the top teams, or will Maresca stick to the formation and selection that’s done so well for him so far?

It’s another fascinating question we can’t wait to be answered after the break.