Graham Potter has five key decisions to make in order to give Chelsea the best chance of snatching three points from Manchester United today. The 47-year-old has already beaten Erik ten Hag this season, winning 2-1 over the Red Devils on the opening day of the Premier League season as Brighton head coach.
A first-half double from Pascal Gross handed Potter the lead before Alexis Mac Allister gave the Red Devils a lifeline through an own goal. But, the Seagulls stood strong and won three crucial points at Old Trafford.
It was the first and only time that he and Ten Hag had come up against one another. This time, the duo will lock horns at Stamford Bridge and the Blues boss will be hoping to rework his magic and extend his unbeaten start in west London.
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So, with that being said, football.london have taken a look at the five key decisions that Potter faces which could determine whether or not Chelsea qualify for the Champions League by the end of the campaign.
Pocket-sized problem
At the start of the season, Lisandro Martinez became a laughing stock for many supporters due to his unorthodox height for a centre-half. But, after keeping 6′2 Harry Kane quiet at Old Trafford in the United's 2-0 win, it's fair to say that the Argentine has proved people wrong.
Potter will have to find a way to counter his playmaking abilities from the back. If Chelsea can intercept the Red Devils' build-up from the source, then the Blues will enjoy their afternoon at Stamford Bridge.
Loftus-Cheek dilemma
Arguably Potter's biggest headache. Ruben Loftus-Cheek has grown into a key player for Chelsea recently, with his versatility coming in handy.
But, while he can put in a shift at right wing-back in a back-five, the England international's best position is in a double pivot. With Reece James out and United home to some great wide-men, Potter could operate Loftus-Cheek in his alternative role.
Carney chaos
This is where we segue onto the role of Carney Chukwuemeka. The 19-year-old midfielder impressed off the bench against Brentford and is in line for a place in the Chelsea starting XI.
It could be too much too soon if he were to partner Jorginho or Mateo Kovacic in a double pivot but, if Potters opts for a midfield three, then Chukwuemeka could be an exciting wildcard option - if Loftus-Cheek is then used out wide.
Keeping Kepa between the sticks
Kepa Arrizabalaga will be hoping to remain between the sticks against United. He's enjoyed an excellent vein of form under Potter, keeping Edouard Mendy out of the side.
At this point, it seems highly likely that the Spaniard will start but the Senegal international's ability shouldn't be overlooked. As the saying goes, form is temporary but class is permanent.
Aubameyang or Broja?
Armando Broja was handed his first start of the season against Brentford but failed to find the net. The Cobham graduate will be hoping for a run of games now to build momentum but it's probable that Potter opts for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang now that the 33-year-old has had some rest.
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