Kickoff: 19:45 GMT at Upton Park on March 4, 2015
Projected Chelsea Line-Up: Courtois; Ivanovic, Cahill, Terry, Azpilicueta; Zouma, Fabregas, Ramires; Willian, Hazard; Costa
In last years London Derby between Chelsea and West Ham at Upton Park, Chelsea ran away with the victory 3-0. West Ham are in fine form this year with many attacking threats and will not lay down and take a beating from their West London rivals. Through Enner Valencia and Diafra Sakho they will be looking to score and with the likes of Adrian in net, they will look to keep Diego Costa out.
It seems Alex Song will sit this one out for West Ham and it is still not yet clear whether this is a tactical decision or an injury. Regardless, it is good for Chelsea. Chelsea will again be without the suspended Matic, who misses his second match after reacting with a shove on Ashley Barnes, after a nasty challenge.
Chelsea are fresh off a fantastic weekend, winning the Capital One Cup against other London rivals, Tottenham, 2-0. In addition, a weekend loss by City to Liverpool could mean an eight point gap at the top for Chelsea, once they play their extra game in hand. Things are looking up for the Blues.
The last meeting between these sides saw Chelsea win 2-0 in late December. Goals came from captain, John Terry, and Diego Costa. This match seems to be an edgy one with West Ham in superb form and Chelsea coming off their greatest victory this season. With Chelsea having the opportunity to remain five points clear at the top, it is hard to see them losing this one. Diego Costa is getting back to form and despite missing the big man, Matic, I see nothing but three points for Chelsea.
Prediction: Chelsea 2-1 West Ham (Diego Costa, Ramires; Enner Valencia)
Keep The Blue Flag Flying High!
