Ross Barkley gets a chance with five changes – Thomas Tuchel’s supreme Chelsea XI vs Malmo

Thomas Tuchel gives verdict on Chelsea's 1-0 win at Brentford

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Chelsea continued their spell at the top of the Premier League table with a staunch 1-0 win over Brentford at the weekend – and may look to rotate against a weaker Malmo side on Wednesday evening. Brentford were the better side in the all-action west London clash on Saturday, although they couldn’t find a way past Edouard Mendy’s heroics. However, the Blues’ home advantage against Malmo will be pivotal to their success against the Swedes, and there may be some changes introduced as a result. Express Sport takes a look at who could make an appearance.

Goalkeeper: Mendy

Who else would it be after his heroics at the weekend?

Edouard Mendy’s story is an inspiring one, having been unemployed seven years ago to winning the Champions League over the summer.

But as far as performances go, none have been more inspiring than the one he produced against the Bees.

And for that reason alone, there is less reason to drop him than ever before.

Defence: Azpilicueta, Silva, Chalobah

Cesar Azpilicueta’s leadership at the back has been missed, and he could be reinstated to the defence as opposed to the wing-back role.

Elsewhere, Thiago Silva is set to return from Covid-19 protocols that he had to endure whilst on Brazil duty.

And in a toss-up between Malang Sarr and Trevoh Chalobah, it is the latter who should get the nod given he has been playing longer than Sarr in the Tuchel set-up.

A mixture of experience, adventure and athleticism would work wonders in a fixture such as this.

Midfield: James, Saul, Barkley, Kovacic, Chilwell

Ben Chilwell is set to start once more following his goal against Brentford upon his return to the side in the Premier League.

The left wing-back has come into the side ahead of Marcos Alonso in recent weeks, and has two goals in two as Chelsea’s creative force down the flank.

Elsewhere, Reece James could return to the fore on the right having not started in a month following a groin injury.

And Ross Barkley could line up with Saul Niguez in a new look midfield that could incorporate Mateo Kovacic.

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Attackers: Lukaku, Havertz

Romelu Lukaku hasn’t scored in over a month in a run stretching to five games.

And against inferior opposition, this could be the time for him to step up his game and get the confidence flowing.

No goals in five games isn’t good enough for someone who cost £97.5million, and Lukaku will know that.

He could partner Kai Havertz, who hasn’t started a game since the 3-0 win against Tottenham in September.

Timo Werner – arguably Chelsea’s most in-form striker at the moment – may be benched with an eye on the Norwich City game that beckons at the weekend.

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