Miazga in, Terry out for Chelsea trip to PSG
Chelsea manager Guus Hiddink included United States defender Matt Miazga in his 20-man squad to face Paris Saint-Germain in the first leg of their Champions League round of 16 tie on Tuesday.
Miazga is not expected to feature from the outset at the Parc des Princes (2:00p.m. ET, FS1, FOX Sports GO), but he is included in the Blues’ injury-hit squad to increase the defensive options.
John Terry joined the expanding injury list when he sustained a hamstring knock in the 5-1 victory over Newcastle on Saturday. Terry remained in London on Monday to recuperate from the injury as his teammates traveled to Paris.
The squad are on board. We're off to Paris... #ChampionsLeague pic.twitter.com/cZyqQPbOyJ
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) February 15, 2016
The absence of first-choice center backs Terry and Kurt Zouma paves the way for Gary Cahill and Branislav Ivanovic to partner in the heart of the back four. Ivanovic slid over from his usual berth at right back after Terry departed against Newcastle at the weekend.
Miazga and Jake Clarke-Salter are the options in reserve, but their lack of experience at the top level likely leaves them as emergency alternatives in the event of further setbacks. Miazga is likely to feature on the bench as he awaits his first appearance since signing from New York Red Bulls last month.
Recent loan signing Alexandre Pato missed out on a place in this squad as he continues to work his way toward full fitness, while Nemanja Matic is suspended for the tie.
Chelsea squad to face Paris Saint-Germain
Goalkeepers: Asmir Begovic, Jamal Blackman, Thibaut Courtois
Defenders: Cesar Azpilicueta, Gary Cahill, Jake Clarke-Salter, Branislav Ivanovic, Matt Miazga, Baba Rahman
Midfielders: Cesc Fabregas, Eden Hazard, Kenedy, Ruben Loftus-Cheek, John Mikel Obi, Oscar, Pedro, Bertrand Traore, Willian
Forwards: Diego Costa, Loic Remy
Suspended: Nemanja Matic