Predicted Chelsea XI to play Fulham – Luiz to start if fit

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Match to be played on Saturday 1st March 2014 at 15:00. Venue: Craven Cottage, London.

Chelsea’s focus switches back to the Premier League following a hard earned draw away at Galatasaray in the Champions League.

Chelsea head into the West London derby top of the Premier League table on 60 points and under pressure to secure a win which will keep them in first place at the start of a busy March.

Here’s the side Jose Mourinho could select this weekend.

GK – Petr Cech

Cech’s place is rarely in doubt these days as he’s one of the most experienced and consistent goalkeepers in the Premier League.

RB – Branislav Ivanovic

Ivanovic is now Chelsea’s primary right-back and he should start if he’s not fatigued from the game against Galatasaray.

CB – Gary Cahill

Cahill is quickly becoming one of the most consistent central defenders in the division. He looks fit, he looks quick and he reads the game superbly which will be important.

CB – David Luiz

If Luiz manages to get fit in time for this game then he should come into the heart of the defence in front of John Terry. Terry’s recovery time will be tested if Luiz doesn’t make the game.

LB – Cesar Azpilicueta

Azpilicueta looks comfortable in any part of the Chelsea defence and has settled nicely at left-back. He’s developing a very productive relationship with Eden Hazard over on that side.

RM – Willian

Willian has settled into the pace and style of Premier League football well. He offers a lot of pace over on that side of the pitch, which makes him a real threat.

DM – Nemanja Matic

Expect Matic to come back into the team and protect the defence. His size makes him an intimidating person to play against.

CM – Ramires

Ramires should keep his place pulling the strings in the heart of Chelsea’s midfield. He can drop off and also push on in attack.

AM – Oscar

Oscar came on late against Galatasaray and he should return to the starting line-up for this match. He’ll play in the hole behind the main striker.

LM – Eden Hazard

The Belgian will take his usual place over on the left. He can hold the ball out wide, cross well and also move in centrally. He presents goal threats from a variety of positions.

ST – Fernando Torres

Torres should start this game as his goal last night will give him some confidence. He was taken of for Eto’o with 20 minutes left so he should be fine in terms of fitness and recovery.