Chelsea vs Tottenham: How Blues could line up for Carabao Cup clash with Lukaku back in squad

• Lukaku is back in the squad and could feature in the Carabao Cup semi-final against Tottenham
• Tuchel has a string of talent to choose from going forward, including Hakim Ziyech, who was overlooked by Morrocco for Afcon
• The first leg takes place at Stamford Bridge in Conte’s first return since leaving the Chelsea job

Romelu Lukaku is set to return to the Chelsea squad as early as Wednesday, January 5 for the Carabao Cup clash against Tottenham Hotspur.

Lukaku, 28, was reintegrated back into the squad after he publicly issued an apology for sentiments he made during an interview that was done three weeks ago.

After crunch talks with Thomas Tuchel, the Chelsea gaffer confirmed that the Belgian was back in the squad and was eligible for selection for the Carabao Cup semi-final.

Tuchel also confirmed in his press conference that Timo Werner had trained with the first team ahead of Wednesday’s first leg.

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"Timo Werner trained yesterday, we have one more session to go and he feels much better which is a really good sign.” Tuchel said as quoted by The Sun.

That means the Blues will have a healthy squad to choose from, at least upfront, when they come up against Antonio Conte’s men.

In defence, however, the Blues might have to make adjustments as Tuchel confirmed Andreas Christensen was still not ready for action.

Edouard Mendy recently departed for the Africa Cup of Nations, meaning Kepa Arrizabalaga is certain to start on Wednesday.

In defence, it is highly likely that Antonio Rudiger will be tasked with keeping Tottenham out alongside Malang Sarr and captain Ceasar Azpilicueta.

Because of his typical three at the back formation, Marcos Alonso and Callum Hudson-Odoi will likely be the wingbacks, while the return of Matteo Kovacic will be a huge boost for Chelsea who will likely enjoy a solid partnership of the Croat alongside N’golo Kante.

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If Tuchel decides to graduatlly ease Lukaku back into the squad, he has the option to start Kai Havertz up front.

Notably, Morrocan winger Hakim Ziyech was overlooked by his country for the AFCON, meaning he is available for selection.

Here is Sports Brief’s prediction for Chelsea’s starting XI against Tottenham tonight.

In goal: Kepa Arrizabalaga

Defence: Ceasar Azpilicueta, Antonio Rudiger, Malang Sarr

Midfield/Wingbacks: Marcos Alonso, N’golo Kante, Matteo Kovacic, Callum Hudson Odoi

Forward: Pulisic, Ziyech, Lukaku