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The Blues were beaten in the 2023/24 final by a youthful Liverpool side and labelled ‘billion-pound bottlejobs’ by Gary Neville in what was a match symptomatic of Chelsea’s underwhelming campaign under the former Tottenham Hotspur coach.
However, the mood around west London has lifted since Maresca’s appointment as Chelsea start to find their rhythm. A weekend victory over Newcastle United has prepared them well for Wednesday’s Carabao Cup fourth round tie against the same opponents at St James’ Park.
Such are the riches within Maresca’s squad, the Italian should be able to name an entirely new starting XI that would itself be capable of battling for Champions League qualification in the Premier League. Significant alterations will be made from the weekend victory over the Magpies.
Here is how Chelsea could line up on Wednesday night.
GK: Filip Jorgensen – Robert Sanchez’s iffy displays have only strengthened Jorgenen’s hand, with the summer signing having performed admirably outside of the Premier League since arriving at Stamford Bridge.
RB: Axel Disasi – Despite not being a favourite of Maresca’s, Disasi has been a handy rotation option for the Europa Conference League and Carabao Cup this term. He may feature at right-back to allow Malo Gusto and Reece James to rest.
CB: Tosin Adarabioyo – A shaky display against Liverpool in place of Wesley Fofana dented his reputation but the former Fulham defender is an excellent backup. He’ll be hoping that Newcastle boss Eddie Howe gives Alexander Isak the night off.
CB: Renato Veiga – The Portuguese defender will battle with Benoit Badiashile for a starting berth on Tyneside but the versatile youngster has impressed when called upon this season. He has even earned his first Portugal cap off the back of a …
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