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Tuesday, 24 September 2013

Match Preview: Swindon vs Chelsea

Kick Off Time 19:45

Team News

Swindon
  • Alex Pritchard should return to action having missed out at the weekend but fellow Tottenham loanee Ryan Mason, along with winger Ryan Harley, is out injured.
  • Centre-back Nathan Byrne is suspended so Grant Hall will continue to partner captain Darren Ward at the back.
  • Former Newcastle youngster Nile Ranger will lead the line fresh off the back of a winning goal in the 3-2 win over Bristol City at the weekend.
Chelsea
  • Chelsea have no injury concerns but will likely rotate almost their entire XI against Swindon, though either Ivanovic, Cahill or Terry could continue, partnering the returning David Luiz.
  • Fringe players such as Bertrand, Azpilicueta, Van Ginkel, Essien and De Bruyne could all feature from kick off, while youngsters such as Tomas Kalas and Nathan Ake will also be hoping for a chance.
  • Juan Mata should return to the starting XI after his controversial omission from the weekend's squad, playing in behind compatriot Fernando Torres.

Prediction

  • Swindon will miss the influence of young playmaker Ryan Mason and will likely set up with a defensive line-up, hoping to exploit any chance to counter or utilise set pieces.
  • Chelsea undoubtedly have one of the strongest second string sides in the country and they'll need to get up for this game against a lower league opposition if they are to impress Mourinho and work their way into his first team plans.
  • The likes of Willian, Mata and De Bruyne should have too much quality for the hosts and it would be a surprise if the Blues didn't run out comfortable winners, but the presence of the television cameras should give Swindon a boost early on.
Prediction:
Swindon
0
3
Chelsea

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