Chelsea head to the Britannia Stadium this Saturday for an important league game against Stoke, who have already taken points off Manchester United and Arsenal at their home this season.
The Blues have recovered from a shock defeat to Burnley on the first day of the season to regain title winning form, and they will be confident of beating a Stoke side hit by injuries.
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Last weekend’s draw with Arsenal was a little disappointing, especially given it was at Stamford Bridge, but sandwiching that game were two thrashings of Qarabag and Nottingham Forest that should have given the side some confidence.
Even better, half the first team was rested in midweek, and Eden Hazard may be fit to start at last.
Match Details
Kick-off at 15.00 BST at the bet365 stadium . There will be no TV broadcast.
Injury News
David Luiz is suspended following his straight red in the final minutes against Arsenal, so Antonio Rudiger is expected to step in to replace him. Andreas Christensen is another option.
Eden Hazard started in midweek and is back to full fitness, but it’s uncertain whether he will be able to start two games in such a short period. It’s a toss up, but expect to see the Belgian on the bench for one last game.
Stoke have suffered serious defensive injuries, with Ryan Shawcross and Geoff Cameron injured and Kurt Zouma unable to face his parent club.
One to watch
Xherdan Shaqiri – The ultimate “hot or cold” player, any chance Stoke have of winning will depend on the tricky attacker having one of his dangerous days. It could well be one of his powerful strikes or set pieces that opens the game up, or perhaps his lack of defensive commitment could cost his side against Chelsea’s rapid counters. Either way, the Swiss will have a great influence on the outcome.
Recent league form
Chelsea : L W W W D
Stoke: L W D D L
Match Prediction
It will not be easy, despite Stoke’s depleted back line, and the game could descend into a bit of a scrap. But Chelsea have the firepower to win this, even if it gets ugly. Chelsea will take the three points but it could come down to a late goal.
