After a gruelling ninety minutes in Paris, Chelsea return to Premier League action against Burnley on Saturday. Burnley currently occupy the nineteenth position in the Premier League and are fighting to avoid relegation in the first season back in the Premier League. The match is the return fixture from Chelsea’s first game of the season, which Chelsea eventually ran out 3-1 winners, despite going a goal down. Martin Atkinson will referee the game at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.
The home game will provide Chelsea with a chance to regroup and re focus after a tough game against French champions PSG. The last time these two sides met at Stamford Bridge was back in 2009, Michael Ballack was amongst the goal scorers that day.
Recent Form
Burnley come into this game on the back of mixed run of form. The Premier League strugglers have lost three of the last six, drawing two and securing just the single victory. Despite the three defeats Burnley have managed to perform well, despite the good performances they have seen two goal leads slip twice, at home to West Brom and Crystal Palace.
In contrast, Chelsea go into the game with just the one defeat in their last six Premier League outings after their late winner at home to Everton. Jose Mourinho will be hoping to continue his fine home form as Chelsea manager.
Team News
With no new major injury concerns after the Paris trip, Jose Mourinho will remain without John Obi Mikel. The Nigerian did not travel with the squad to Paris after suffering a knee injury. Cesc Fabregas may be rested after a laboured performance in France. The midfielder was reportedly suffering with flu throughout the beginning of the week.
Burnley will be without Dean Marney who was recently ruled out for the remainder of the season. The midfielder suffered a serious knee injury against West Brom.
Ones to watch
Despite being near the foot of the Premier League table, Burnley will still pose a threat. With the players fighting for safety, this will be no easy game. I believe the two main threats from Burnley are firstly, Danny Ings. The striker has been in scintillating form of late, scoring five goals in his last six Premier League appearances. The second player to keep an eye on, is Kieran Trippier. The right back has been ever present for Burnley this season. He has caught the eye of many with his excellent delivery and the quality of his final ball. The right back has conjured up three assists so far this season.
Prediction
I am predicting a professional Chelsea performance that will see us take all three points. I would expect nothing less from Chelsea at home. Mourinho could make changes to the side, but I am hoping to see a reaction from the players after a disappointing performance in France. The players and staff alike will be eager to get back on track. I am going for a 2-0 victory, along with a possible first Stamford Bridge goal for Juan Cuadrado.
