Experienced Chelsea defender Thiago Silva may have dropped a hint that he could be starting the FA Cup semi-final clash with Crystal Palace on Sunday. The Blues already know that Liverpool await them if they manage to make their way past the Eagles.
Thomas Tuchel will be keen for his men to play their best, with the competition the only feasible piece of silverware left on offer this season after midweek’s Champions League exit. If they are to get through, it would mark a third FA Cup final in as many years for the club as well as the German coach’s fifth final since joining.
The challenge of Patrick Vieira and his Palace side isn’t easy though, as Tuchel addressed in his pre-match press conference: “The constant level on which they are playing, high level of energy, commitment. They are playing throughout the season in the same way. It is a big belief, a real team effort, very close to the coach.
