Pre-Arsenal thoughts

With a grueling mid week match with Barcelona, were the whole team ran themselves into the ground for the cause and were rewarded with a handsome 1-0 victory, I fully expect Roberto Di Matteo to ring the changes, if he needs inspiration, here's what I would do.

Goalkeeper- Petr Cech
Had an outstanding game against Barcelona, and even 'keepers need a break, but sadly our back up 'keepers just aren't good enough to step into a game against Arsenal and with not a lot of running to do, I'm sure Cech will be ok to start.

Right Back- Jose Bosingwa

With Ivanovic suspended, the right back slot should go to Bosingwa, some question his ability to defend, however his pace will be vital against Oxlade-Chamberlain and Walcott.

Centre backs- John Terry and Gary Cahill

Unfortantly for the heroic blockers of Wednesday night, there are no replacements ready to step in with David Luiz injured and Ivanovic suspended.

Left Back- Ryan Bertrand

Where players can be rested and a suitable replacement can come in we should do so, Bertrand impressed when he stepped in for Cole earlier in the month and has pace to counter the flying Arsenal wingers.

Defensive midfield- Oriol Romeu

Has gone missing since Di Matteo took over and hasn't played a game since February, with Arteta missing, the 'number 10' role will be less dangerous and even a game rusty Romeu should be more than capable.

Central Midfield- Michael Essien Essien hasn't been himself this season, and almost unthinkably, his Chelsea career is in the balance, so needs to perform here to prove himself capable of staying at Stamford Bridge.

Central Midfield- Florent Malouda Malouda is another facing the axe from Chelsea next season, so a big performance from him will help convince the Chelsea hierarchy he is worth keeping.

Attacking Midfield- Juan Mata

Didn't have the greatest game against Barcelona, but the tactics used in the game weren't suitable for the way Mata plays. Was subsituted during second half, so should be fit enough to start again in a more natural position. 

Striker- Daniel Sturridge

Another player who has found himself stuck in the wilderness under Di Matteo, a goal and a good performance from Studge is needed to force himself back into contention. 

Striker- Fernando Torres

Was just coming back into to form, when Drogba puts in some great performances against Napoli, Tottenham and Barcelona. Drogba is ruled out of this game with a knee injury and Torres could himself starting against Barcelona in the Camp Nou if Drogba cannot win his fitness race. Despite some good assists, Torres really needs to score goals. Prediction 2-2r