Chelsea vs. Bolton: How the Blues Should Line Up in Capital One Cup Tie

Chelsea begin their Capital One Cup campaign against Bolton Wanderers at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday. Manager Jose Mourinho has fond memories of the competition as it was the first trophy he won in 2004-05, and the opponents will also bring a glow of nostalgia. It was at Bolton’s Reebok Stadium that the Blues clinched their first league title in 50 years at the end of the Special One’s first season in charge.

The domestic cup competitions traditionally give fringe players the chance to get some game time, and this match is likely to be no exception. Steve Holland told the media that although the management team has not yet selected the starting XI for this tie, it is seen as an opportunity to rotate the squad.

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Holland: 'There will be some changes tomorrow and it will be an opportunity for some players to stake a claim.' #CFC

— Chelsea FC (@chelseafc) September 23, 2014"

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Holland: 'It is important you have a pool of players ready to call upon to handle the demanding fixture schedule.' #CFC

— Chelsea FC (@chelseafc) September 23, 2014"

With Thibaut Courtois preferred for both the Premier League and Champions League campaigns so far, Petr Cech should make his first start of the season on Wednesday. The veteran ‘keeper is still one of the best shot-stoppers in the world, and Mourinho should have no qualms over him deputising for Courtois.

The back four is likely to see a shake-up as John Terry is in need of a rest. Gary Cahill should move across to replace him, with Branislav Ivanovic joining him at centre-half. Filipe Luis could be given his first start for the Blues, while Cesar Azpilicueta could regain his natural position at right-back.

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Nathan Ake has again remained with the first-team squad as Mourinho looks to further his development, which had begun in earnest under Rafael Benitez. The young Dutchman’s versatility makes him equally capable at left-back, centre-half or defensive midfield, but it is in the latter position that he is likely to start against Bolton.

Ake’s defensive abilities will allow Nemanja Matic to explore the more attacking side of his game, which has already yielded his first Chelsea goal against Everton this season. If the Blues are able to close the game out early enough, Lewis Baker could replace Matic in central midfield as he continues his transition from the under-21s to the senior squad.

Eden Hazard is likely to be given a rest after featuring in every game so far this season. This should allow Andre Schurrle to move across to the left of the attack, with Willian likely to start on the right. Oscar should be brought back in to the No. 10 role after a short spell on the sideline.

Mourinho confirmed before the Manchester City game that Diego Costa would not feature against Bolton, leaving Loic Remy the logical choice to lead the line. The Frenchman scored on his debut against Swansea City and has spoken about his desire to keep scoring for the club, telling the official website:

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I came on and scored which is what you ask for as a striker. I was very happy to score this goal and I will try to keep going.

Everyone has good quality here and can deliver good passes for me, so I have to take my opportunity when I can because Diego Costa is a fantastic striker. He’s on fire at the minute so I’m just going to do my best every time the manager wants to use me.

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However, Didier Drogba might have something to say about that.

Like Mourinho, Drogba has a long-standing affection for the Capital One Cup having put the Blues ahead in extra time of the 2005 final. Despite that, his performance against Schalke 04 was below the standard expected, and he was equally ineffective when brought on against Manchester City. If Drogba is to have any involvement in this game, it should only be as a late substitute.

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Considering the three crucial matches to come in the next two weeks before the international break, this XI gives Mourinho the best chance to assess the depth of his squad while giving key players a much-needed rest.

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