Chelsea FC Starting XI Prediction at Middlesbrough (FA Cup)

Chelsea FC head to the Riverside Stadium, to take on giant-killers Middlesbrough in FA Cup elite 8 action, with hopes of reaching the Final Four (sorry, we’re speaking only in March Madness mode) we’re likely to see Thomas Tuchel do a bit of squad rotation. Coming off a Champions League win in Northern France on Wednesday night, the Blues have had a bit of fixture congestion, and now is the time for guys like Kepa Arrizabalaga, Malang Sarr and Romelu Lukaku to get a first team assignment.

Yes, we’re talking about the big Belgian, the club’s all-time most expensive player, in these terms right now. He hasn’t had a first team assignment game since the infamous Crystal Palace match on February 19, when he had just seven touches. We’re thinking he’s a lock to start here, ditto for César Azpilicueta and Marcos Alonso.

Chelsea at Middlesbrough FA Cup Quarterfinal FYIs

Kick: Sat March 19, Riverside Stadium. 5:15pm

Chelsea Team News: go here

After Extra Time Podcast: Spotify

Odds: Middlesbrough 11/2, Draw 16/5 Chelsea 1/2