John Terry, not for the first time, now finds himself out of the Chelsea first team…

Granted, the Chelsea captain has been injured in recent weeks – but last weekend’s game represents the first time that Antonio Conte has, voluntarily, dropped the Chelsea skipper; and it could be a sign of things to come.

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In his absence, the Blues have hit a run of form – and after switching to Conte’s coveted 3-4-3 formation, John Terry just might not fit the bill anymore.

There are certainly a number of advantages to putting John Terry back into the side; but are they worth the negative consequences that come too?

With that said, here are 2 pros and 2 cons to John Terry starting against Man Utd…

CON – Outstanding Form

In simple terms, in John Terry’s absence – the Blues have hit a fine run of form.

Dominant victories against both Hull and Leicester were brought on by the utilisation of practically the same team – and both sides did not include the Chelsea skipper.

You can’t fix a flawless system – and John Terry shouldn’t take the place of someone that is performing well.

If a problem arises against Man Utd, then Conte can make a change – but based on current form; JT shouldn’t get a look in.

PRO – Presence

Much has been made of John Terry’s on the field persona; but regardless of how well he is performing or how well the team is performing – there is no argument; Chelsea’s defence is always better when JT is on the field.

The way that he marshals the defence makes the Blues immediately more solid, and often takes away the persistent threat often posed by Premier League opposition.

As Chelsea captain, Terry is a larger than life figure – and Conte must have him on the field.

CON – Formation Change

John Terry did well as part of a 4 man defence, but now that Chelsea have shifted to a 3 man defence – the Chelsea captain simply does not fit.

His lack of mobility and pace will be a real problem in this system, and he will simply get exploited time and time again if Conte chooses to utilise him.

Cahill, Luiz and Azpilicueta have formed an excellent trio as of late; and Terry does not provide enough to displace any of them.

 PRO – Fixture Significance

John Terry is the ultimate big game player – and Chelsea vs Man Utd is the ultimate big game fixture.

The game is often a feisty affair, and John Terry’s commitment and control will be absolutely essential as Chelsea’s relatively inexperienced squad goes into battle.

Say what you like about his quality on the pitch, but his personality will be necessary on the day.

More to the point, JT always turns up for these games; and you would bet your house on him putting on a stormer on Sunday.

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