How Chelsea could line up against Tottenham Hotspur

Chelsea head into the second leg of their EFL Cup semi-final with Tottenham Hotspur needing to overcome a 1-0 deficit in order to reach the final.

A first-half penalty from Harry Kane proved to be the difference at Wembley Stadium earlier this month, with both teams looking to progress through to a likely showdown with Manchester City.

Chelsea warmed up for Thursday's showdown by suffering a 2-0 defeat away at Arsenal on Saturday evening, a result which led to Maurizio Sarri criticising the performance of his players.

The Blues head coach must decide whether to make changes for the game at Stamford Bridge, and here Sports Mole looks at how the Italian's side could line up against their city rivals.

Out: Marco van Ginkel (knee), Ruben Loftus-Cheek (back)

Chelsea face Sheffield Wednesday in the FA Cup on Sunday evening, and that is likely to result in Sarri opting against making a number of alterations for the game with Spurs.

Olivier Giroud is the most likely inclusion in attack due to Chelsea's recent struggles in the final third, with either Willian or Pedro expected to drop down to the substitutes' bench.

Mateo Kovacic should keep his place ahead of Ross Barkley in central midfield, but changes are unlikely to be made at the back despite the defeat at the Emirates Stadium.

Gonzalo Higuain could feature in the squad if he completes a loan move from Juventus before midday on Wednesday, but the Argentine will likely begin the game among the replacements.

> Click here to see how Spurs could line up for this fixture