Chelsea are currently undergoing their final preparations before they return to Premier League action with a London derby tonight.

It would be advisable for Mauricio Pochettino to not make too many changes from the side who played last time out in the FA Cup.

The Blues returned to winning ways with a 3-1 victory away from home against Aston Villa that booked their place in the 5th Round of the competition.

Aston Villa v Chelsea - Emirates FA Cup Fourth Round Replay
Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images

Goals from Conor Gallagher, Nicolas Jackson and Enzo Fernandez took all the headlines going forwards, however the defensive performance is one Pochettino will surely be most proud of.

A back four that did not include Thiago Silva, much to the bemusement of supporters who attended the game, put in a superb display to nulify anything provided by the likes of Ollie Watkins up front.

One of those who featured in that game has now seen injury limit his time in the starting team.

Frenchman Benoit Badiashile has been ruled out of the EFL Cup final at the end of the month, with him suffering another injury.

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Huge chance for Disasi

With the manager looking at his squad for a replacement for him, one player who will still be featuring at the back is Axel Disasi.

Badiashile’s former Monaco teammate was imperious at the back, and this led to him being one of the better performers on the pitch.

His experience playing in a wide defensive role also helped allow the attacking threat of Malo Gusto to prosper.

With the EFL Cup final coming in just two weeks time, these games are crucial for the Chelsea players who are looking to make their mark at Wembley against Liverpool.

Disasi has the chance tonight to prove why he should be the first name on the teamsheet as far as the central defensive role is concerned.

See also  Unknown PL club now make enquiry about signing £47m striker, Chelsea were linked in January - Sky journalist

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