Chelsea: Use Mikel, Add Some Pace And Let Ba Go Up Against Former Enemy To Beat Sunderland

After eight games without a win to start the season, new manager Gus Poyet has injected some hope back into the Sunderland fans with two wins and a draw in their last five. Now, Poyet invites his former club Chelsea to the Stadium of Light, and it will be no easy game for Jose Mourinho's side. Here is what I'd do if I was the Special One.

Firstly, John Obi Mikel would be the first name on my team sheet for this one.

He is a player who can pick apart opposition attacks with ease and thrives when up against scrappy sides. I'd let him sit in the pivot while Ramires bursts from box to box and watch Sunderland struggle to break them down.

Secondly, Willian needs to start.

The pace that the Brazilian has shown since he arrived at the club has been brilliant and he's got a hat full of tricks as well.  Sunderland's defence has been exposed to pace already this season so Willian's presence could be a really effective move.

Lastly, I think Chelsea need to let Demba Ba lead the line. The striker played brilliantly against Southampton last week and was rewarded with his first league goal of the season. Being a former Newcastle player may give him extra incentive, too.