It’s finally back, it is finally time to welcome back the Premier League. We’ve missed it right? After a very successful international break for the Blue’s which saw Eden Hazard net for Belgium, Oscar fire Brazil past France and Nemanja Matic score an excellent acrobatic effort for Serbia. As well as a number of Chelsea’s youth players representing England throughout the youth levels.
With attention now turning back to the Premier League, Chelsea welcome Stoke to Stamford Bridge. The pair last met in December when Chelsea travelled to the Britannia Stadium and left with all three points. Thanks to goals from captain John Terry and Cesc Fabregas ensured a successful visit to a stadium which has been one of few stadiums Chelsea have struggled at over recent years.
In this fixture last season, Chelsea ran out 3-0 victors which included goals from Frank Lampard and Mohamed Salah who no longer in the squad. You will be able to watch the game on Sky Sports 1[KO:17:30pm].
In terms of team news, Chelsea will be without their major goal threat Diego Costa. The Spaniard remains on the side line after tearing his hamstring against Hull. Costa also missed out on international duty with Spain. After grabbing a late winner against Hull, Loic Remy looks set to step into the side in Costa’s absence. Alongside Costa, Mikel looks set to remain on the injury list, but does have a slight chance of featuring in the game.
Stoke will be without on loan winger Victor Moses as he will be ineligible to face his parent club. Summer signing Bojan is a long term absentee alongside Peter Odemwingie. Former Barcelona player Marc Muniesa could return from a hamstring injury for The Potters.
Chelsea go into the game in red hot form in the Premier League, The Blues are unbeaten in their last nine Premier League games. They have not tasted defeat since the turn of the year where Mourinho’s men lost away to Tottenham.
In contrast, Stoke have lost three of their last five games. Two of which have come from their last two matches in the Premier League. Losing to the resilient Crystal Palace and West Bromwich Albion. Chelsea have the Premier League trophy in their sights and I expect to see a strong start to the game, similar to what we saw against Hull. I am predicting a 2-1 victory for Chelsea, Hazard and Remy to chip in with the goals.
