Thomas Tuchel could really set down his marker as Chelsea manager if he and his troop can overthrow Liverpool at Anfield tomorrow night.
It has been a pretty easy ride for the Blues coach up until this point, but a trip to visit the champions could change all of that.
This is billed as the fiercest examination of Tuchel’s project so far, meaning his team selection must match the occasion.
Keeping Edouard Mendy in between the Chelsea sticks is always a good place to begin.
As is retaining the same back three that have fulfilled their duties impeccably in the past month.
Cesar Azpilicueta, Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen combine to make up a unit that’s conceded just two Premier League goals in four matches.
Although Thiago Silva’s return to training will be a massive boost for the long run, it seems only fair that Tuchel rewards those individuals for their recent efforts by playing them in the biggest games.
Callum Hudson-Odoi has definitely been afforded this luxury, having featured in every fixture under Tuchel so far.
He may be given a rest against Liverpool, as another academy graduate steps into his shoes.
Reece James has found starts hard to come by, but always looks a threat when coming off the bench.
With Liverpool possessing some world-class attacking talent, James’ natural defensive attributes just edge him over Hudson-Odoi at right-wing back.
On the opposite flank is Ben Chilwell. He was offered a rare outing last weekend at home to Manchester United in place of the regular left-wing back, Marcos Alonso.
One of Tuchel’s key reasons for replacing Chilwell with the Spaniard was based on height.
Liverpool don’t actually have much of that, which means Chilwell’s pace pits him ahead of Alonso.
Mateo Kovacic and N’Golo Kante form Chelsea’s midfield pairing once more, having done so against Atletico Madrid and Manchester United.
Only Mason Mount remains from the forward line that draw a blank with United on Sunday.
Timo Werner comes in for Hakim Ziyech.
The 27-year-old failed to impress once again as an attacking outlet and actually looks more dangerous coming off the bench.
Perhaps the most intriguing tactical decision from Tuchel will be left to the last name on his team sheet.
Kai Havertz is recalled to the XI for the first time since January 31st, replacing Olivier Giroud up front.
Tuchel explained that Havertz could play as a false nine and it certainly wouldn’t be the most peculiar decision he’s made this season.
Chelsea predicted XI vs Liverpool: Mendy; Azpilicueta, Christensen, Rudiger; James, Kante, Kovacic, Chilwell; Mount, Havertz, Werner