Expected Chelsea XI vs Liverpool as Thomas Tuchel eyes surprise in top-four race

Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel could make two key changes to his starting lineup ahead of tonight's clash with Liverpool.

The Blues are unbeaten since the German's arrival, winning six and drawing three of his nine games in charge.

And they can return to the top-four by inflicting a remarkable fifth successive home defeat on Liverpool at Anfield this evening.

Thiago Silva and Tammy Abraham remain unavailable for Tuchel, who otherwise has a fully fit squad to choose from.

Edouard Mendy has kept 11 clean sheets in 21 matches since his move from Rennes and will retain his place in goal.

In front of him, Antonio Rudiger, Andreas Christensen and Cesar Azpilicueta are all expected to start.

The trio delivered a solid defensive display in Sunday's 0-0 draw with Man United and have gained Tuchel's trust.

However, the German could ring the changes at wing-back, with Callum Hudson-Odoi and Ben Chilwell set to miss out.

Reece James and Marcos Alonso may be preferred for their crossing ability, should Olivier Giroud start up-front.

N'Golo Kante will provide the legs against Liverpool's midfield, while Matteo Kovacic has been a firm favourite under Tuchel.

The Croatian has played in all nine matches under the German and remains crucial to his plans at Anfield tonight.

Tuchel has no shortage of options going forward, with Timo Werner, Kai Havertz and Hakim Ziyech all pushing for starts.

But they're all set to miss out in favour of Mason Mount, who has continued to impress since the German's arrival.

He'll provide the creativity in the number 10 slot, just behind the in-form Giroud.

The Frenchman has two goals in his last three matches and also boasts a fine strike-rate against the Reds.

Giroud has seven Premier League goals to his name against Liverpool, four of which have come at Anfield.

Expected Chelsea XI to face Liverpool (3-4-2-1): Mendy; Azpilicueta, Christensen, Rudiger; James, Kante, Kovacic, Alonso; Mount, Werner; Giroud.

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