FA Cup: Chelsea vs Preston match preview, predictions, possible Line up, time and where to watch

The FA Cup match between Chelsea and Preston is scheduled for January 6, 2024, at Stamford Bridge. This encounter is a classic David vs. Goliath battle in English football's oldest competition.

Date: January 6, 2024

Time: 6.30pm WAT

Venue: Stamford Bridge, London

Broadcast Details: Live on Cable TV

Chelsea's Form: After winning four of their last five games, Chelsea is in good form, especially in cup competitions​​​​.

Preston's Form: Struggling with four losses in their last five games, Preston faces an uphill battle​​.

Chelsea's predicted lineup, considering the injuries and fitness issues they are facing, could be:

Goalkeeper: Petrovic

Defenders: Gusto, Gilchrist, Silva, Colwill

Midfielders: Fernandez, Gallagher

Attackers: Madueke, Nkunku, Sterling, Broja

Key players to watch from Chelsea include Cole Palmer, who has been in impressive form, contributing significantly in their recent matches, and Noni Madueke, another promising talent.

Preston North End's potential lineup might feature:

Goalkeeper: Woodman

Defenders: Storey, Lindsay, and Hughes

Midfielders: Potts, Ledson, McCann, Browne, Millar

Forwards: Evans, Keane

For Preston, Liam Millar could be a key player. He has been influential for his team, contributing goals and assists in the championship.

Chelsea enters the game with a strong record, having won four of their last five matches in all competitions. Preston, on the other hand, is on a less favourable run, having lost their last two matches and struggling with goal-scoring​​​​.

Historical Matchups: Chelsea has won 31 times, Preston 26 times, with 17 draws. Chelsea won both FA Cup encounters this century​​.

Injuries to key players like Ben Chilwell and Carney Chukwuemeka, but both are nearing returns. Alfie Gilchrist might start​​.

Preston: Robbie Brady might miss the game due to a calf issue​​

Chelsea will live up to the tag of favourites when they play Preston and will be on the front foot from the start.

Preston are likely to focus on counter-attacks, seeking opportunities against Chelsea's strong lineup.

Prediction: A strong leaning towards Chelsea winning, possibly with a scoreline of 3-0​​.

Other betting tips: There is a high probability of over 2.5 total goals in the game​​.

Chelsea enters the match as the clear favourite, but the unpredictability of the FA Cup could provide a twist. Fans can watch the game live on Cable TV to see if Chelsea continue their impressive cup run or Preston manages an upset.