Big Match Breakdown: Leicester City v Chelsea

Team news, stats and tips for FA Cup tie

Leicester City host Chelsea this afternoon in the FA Cup’s last remaining quarter-final tie.

Both clubs have enjoyed relatively easy routes through to the sixth round. The hosts have seen off Fleetwood Town, Peterborough United and Sheffield United. Chelsea, on the other hand, came through a replay against Norwich City before powering past Hull City and Newcastle United.

The two clubs also tasted success in the Premier League last week; although it’s the Foxes who are in better form overall.

The Coral News Team have analysed all of the crucial factors in another Big Match Breakdown…

Head-to-Head

While recent form may not be in Chelsea’s favour, their head-to-head record against Leicester is. The Blues are unbeaten in six against the Foxes, winning four of their last five.

They’ve lost just once against the Midlands outfit since 2001 and are unbeaten in seven FA Cup ties against Claude Puel’s men.

Earlier in the season, the West Londoners prevailed 2-1 at the King Power Stadium. Alvaro Morata and N’Golo Kante did the damage either side of half-time. Jamie Vardy’s 62nd-minute penalty wasn’t enough to rescue the game for the hosts. The sides also played out a 0-0 draw at Stamford Bridge in January.

Likely XIs

Leicester have been in Marbella this week and should be refreshed for their first FA Cup quarter-final since 2002. The Foxes will likely stick with the same side that comfortably beat West Bromwich Albion last week.

That should mean starts for Riyad Mahrez, Shinji Okazaki and Demarai Gray in advanced midfield roles. Christian Fuchs could swap in for Ben Chilwell at full-back in Puel’s only likely change.