Chelsea have a deep squad – it is no secret. One could argue that Thomas Tuchel has a minimum of two or three players in every position to choose from for his playing eleven. This squad depth had led to certain players not getting enough minutes on the pitch. These players are expected to be given vital game-time in easier games and in cup ties, such as the FA Cup quarter-final between Chelsea and Sheffield United. Here are the 3 Chelsea players that I believe will get starts on Sunday and should make the best out of this opportunity to impress manager Tuchel with their performances.
Christian Pulisic
Pulisic was one of Chelsea’s best players last season, and despite a poor start to this season, the American was being favored by Frank Lampard. However, a change in managers led to a change in fortunes for Pulisic, who has started just 1 out of the 13 games under the new German manager. This start came against Leeds, a game in which Chelsea failed to score and Pulisic was not particularly impressive. But after a late assist against Atletico Madrid, the American is expected to start and he will need to put up an impressive performance to keep his place in the side.
Billy Gilmour
The only player out of the 3 in this list, who is yet to start a game under Tuchel is extremely talented Scottish midfielder Billy Gilmour. Gilmour made his Chelsea debut in the FA Cup last season and displayed a MOTM performance against Liverpool. Since then, game-time has not been in abundance for him but he has impressed whenever called upon, particularly in the PL against Liverpool and UCL vs Krasnodar. His lack of game-time is due to the competition in his position. But with both Kante and Jorginho being 30 this year, one should argue that Gilmour could be a formidable long-term option at midfield for the blues.
Kepa Arrizabalaga
To be realistic, Kepa is not going to regain his number 1 spot anytime soon with the amazing form of Edouard Mendy. However, the Spanish keeper does have a lot to prove. A string of impressive performances could find the Spanish keeper some suitors for the summer transfer window. Moreover, Kepa’s place in the Euros for Spain is far from fixed. He has been dropped in the latest Spanish squad and he will be eager to show Spanish manager Luis Enrique that he is De Gea’s most worthy deputy.
