After that 4-1 win against Bournemouth, Chelsea have a huge boost to carry as the side welcomes the title contenders Tottenham Hotspur to Stamford Bridge. The last time these two sides met they played a goal less draw at White Hart lane, but this time, Pocchettino’s men are confident and are willing to do everything to clinch the title from Leicester.
Chelsea had a huge boost last time out as their star man Eden Hazard returned after missing many games due to injuries and the Belgian star gave a glimpse of his brilliance. Furthermore, Spurs’ had to face a setback in their last fixture as the side drew against West Brom at home and the gap between them and the leaders increased.
Looking at the clubs’ recent form, the results favours Spurs very easily as the team has won 4 of their last 6 games and have drawn 2. While, Chelsea have won just 2 of their last 6 games, drawn 2 and have lost twice.
Chelsea had a great home record this year, but a humiliating defeat against Manchester City crashed their hopes. Tottenham, on the other hand, are getting stronger and the players know the importance of the game and will do everything to conquer the Bridge.
Here the predicted Lineup for Chelsea that could face Tottenham Hotspur-
Goalkeeper: Asmir Begovic-
The 28-year-old Bosnian professional will be the man between the sticks as the team’s first choice goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois is facing a 2 match ban following his red card against Swansea.
Defence: Azpilicueta; Cahill; Ivanovic; Baba-
The Spanish full back Azpilicueta is a wonderful defender, but struggled in the one on one battles against Bournemouth wingers. He needs to be tough and steady as he will be facing tougher opponents this time around. Cahill missed the last game due to his illness and was replaced by Mikel at center back. However, the English International is available for the next game and could well lineup alongside Ivanovic. Baba is full of energy, but he needs to strengthen his physical abilities and needs to minimize the mistakes.
Midfielders: Willian; Fabregas; Matic; Pedro; Hazard-
This midfield might prove to be the key for Chelsea’s success in their next game. Willian has been superb this season and will surely start against the Lilywhites. Fabregas is the key man for Chelsea’s attacks and cannot be left out without a strong reason. Matic was given a chance in the last game and he proved his worth right away. Had a slow start this season, but gave a fantastic performance against Bournemouth. Pedro was on the wings last time out and might play as a number 10 against Tottenham as Dier will be absent for the Whites.
Guess who is back? Eden Hazard scored his first goal this season against Bournemouth and gave a fabulous performance.
Stirker: Diego Costa-
Had a quiet game at Vitality stadium as most of the work was done by the midfield. He needs to be sharp and determined against Spurs’ as he will be facing one of the toughest opponents this season.