Chelsea are riding high after demolishing Middlesbrough 6-1 in the League Cup semifinal, booking their ticket to Wembley for a chance to lift some silverware. But they can’t afford to rest on their laurels, as they face a formidable foe in Aston Villa in the FA Cup fourth round. The Villans are in fine form, having beaten both Manchester City and Arsenal in recent weeks, and are challenging for a top-four spot in the league. This is a match that could go either way, and both teams will be desperate to advance in the oldest and most prestigious cup competition in the world.
Chelsea team news: Injuries and suspensions
Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino has a long list of absentees to contend with, as he tries to balance his squad for multiple fronts. Christopher Nkunku and Malo Gusto are back in training, but not ready for action yet. Trevoh Chalobah is still working on his fitness, while Reece James, Wesley Fofana, Marc Cucurella, Lesley Ugochukwu, Roméo Lavia, and Robert Sánchez are all sidelined with various injuries. Cesare Casadei is cup-tied, while Nicolas Jackson and Andrey Santos are away on international duty. Ben Chilwell, who made a successful return from a long-term injury on Tuesday, is unlikely to feature again so soon.
On the bright side, Chelsea have been unstoppable at home lately, winning seven consecutive games in all competitions, their best run at Stamford Bridge since 2017. Pochettino has instilled a winning mentality and an attractive style of play in his team, and he has made it clear that he wants to win trophies this season. He will need his available players to step up and deliver against a tough opponent.
Aston Villa team news: Injuries and suspensions
Aston Villa are enjoying a fantastic season under Unai Emery, who has transformed them into a force to be reckoned with. They have lost only once in their last 14 games in all competitions, and have beaten some of the big guns along the way. Also they are currently fourth in the league, and have a game in hand over their rivals. They are also hungry for cup glory, and will see the FA Cup as a realistic opportunity to end their 25-year trophy drought.
Emery has a relatively healthy squad to choose from, with only Lucas Digne and Jacob Ramsey out with minor injuries. Emiliano BuendĂa and Tyrone Mings are still recovering from long-term issues, while Paul Torres and Robin Olsen are doubtful for the game. Bertrand TraorĂ©, who left Chelsea in 2017, is representing Burkina Faso at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Unlike Chelsea, Villa have had plenty of rest, as they were knocked out of the League Cup in September, and had their league game postponed due to COVID-19 cases. Emery has stressed the importance of the FA Cup, and has vowed to field his strongest team against Chelsea. He has also warned his players not to be complacent, and to be ready for a fierce battle.
Prediction: Chelsea 2-1 Aston Villa
This is a tough one to call, as both teams are in great form and have quality players. Chelsea have the home advantage, and the momentum from their midweek win, but they also have more injuries and fatigue to deal with. Villa have the freshness, and the confidence from their recent results, but they also have less experience and pressure to cope with. It could come down to a moment of magic, or a mistake, or a penalty shootout. We think Chelsea will edge it, but it won’t be easy. What do you think? Let us know in the comments below.