Norwich predicted lineup vs Chelsea - Premier League
A beleaguered Norwich City host Chelsea on Thursday night, looking to regain some kind of form in their losing battle against relegation.
Dean Smith's side have lost four Premier League games on the bounce and slipped back to the foot of the table, where they are now six points from safety after a brief resurgence.
Given the Canaries travel to Leeds on Sunday in what is essentially a relegation six-pointer, the visit of Thomas Tuchel's Blues could be seen as something of a distraction.
However, there is a chance to restore some pride after the 7-0 drubbing in the reverse fixture. Here's how Norwich could lineup.
1. Goalkeeper & defenders
Tim Krul (GK) - Will hope to concede far fewer than seven this time out.
Max Aarons (RB) - The former Bayern Munich target has been dislodged in the starting lineup by Sam Byram, but he could rotate back in here.
Grant Hanley (CB) - The captain will start in a more familiar back four.
Ozan Kabak (CB) - Ben Gibson had a nightmare and was sent off at Stamford Bridge, so Smith may take the opportunity to bring Kabak back into the fold with Leeds in mind.
Dimitris Giannoulis (LB) - Again, perhaps some rotation here as Smith could want to keep Brandon Williams in reserve for the trip to Elland Road.
2. Midfielders
Pierre Lees-Melou (CM) - The man who will be given the unenviable task of covering for Billy Gilmour, with the Scot ineligible against his parent club.
Mathias Normann (CM) - Normann was Norwich's best player before a pelvis injury derailed his season. He hasn't quite been able to have the same impact since.
Kenny McLean (AM) - The Scotland international has started all but three Premier League games this season. Almost certain to be in the XI here.
3. Forwards
Josh Sargent (RW) - Has slowly adapted to the English game and looked more influential in recent weeks. Will have his work cut out here, though.
Teemu Pukki (ST) - Pukki has scored 44% of Norwich's Premier League goals this season, although he only got his seventh last time out against Brentford. Pretty damning.
Jonathan Rowe (LW) - With a potential six-pointer against Leeds coming up at the weekend, Smith may be tempted to rest Milot Rashica and hand a start to impressive 18-year-old Rowe.