Chelsea host Sunderland in the Premier League on Saturday, just two days after sacking manager Jose Mourinho.
The last time these two teams met at Stamford Bridge, seven months ago, Chelsea were crowned Barclays Premier League champions and rounded off the season with a 3-1 win over the Black Cats in a carnival atmosphere.
The mood this Saturday, however, will be completely different. Chelsea will likely be managerless, and should they get a replacement in, the new boss will have had just hours to prepare his side for the match. Sensationally, the game is a real six-pointer between two teams struggling at the bottom of the table.
Team News:
Whoever picks Chelsea’s team will have almost a full squad of players to choose from as there are only a few minor injuries to deal with. Eden Hazard, who limped off Monday night against Leicester with a hip injury is a concern, but it is unclear whether he will play or not. Falcao also remains unlikely to feature.
Decisions will have to be made between players that are match fit, who are battling for a spot in the starting 11. As Costa has shown limited signs of getting back to his best, second choice striker Loic Remy could be in line for a rare start, especially after his consolation goal against Leicester on Monday.
Choices will also be made in midfield, with Cesc Fabregas, who has been dropped recently by former manager Jose Mourinho, looking likely to start. After being subbed off against Leicester, John Terry may be benched, if the interim coach decides to choose Kurt Zouma instead.
Sunderland have a few injured players who will miss the trip to Stamford Bridge. Seb Larsson, Lee Cattermole and Sebastian Coates are three big names that are unlikely to play, as Sunderland go searching for a win against Chelsea.
Stats:
Sunderland beat Chelsea two seasons ago at Stamford Bridge, which was Jose Mourinho’s first defeat as Chelsea manager at home in the Premier League (78 games).
Chelsea sit just one point above the relegation zone, and just three above 19th placed Sunderland. A win for the away side would see them join Chelsea on 15 points, and potentially drop the Blues into the relegation zone as well.
Writer’s Prediction:
Chelsea 2-0 Sunderland
