Chelsea host Brentford at Stamford Bridge as the premier league resumes following the international break. The London derby will see both sides clash for a third time this season. Brentford welcomed Chelsea last time in the quarter-final of the League Cup. However, things are quite different this time. Chelsea will look to march towards sealing third place with a win here. Whereas Brentford would be wanting to further move away from the relegation zone with a positive result.
Chelsea has recovered massively from its turbulent period earlier this year. The Blues are unbeaten in their last six league games and have suffered just one loss in the last 14 games in all competitions. Chelsea are boasting a stellar form going against Brentford, who are looking for their first away win since last sic games.
Chelsea Premier League form: W W W W W
Brentford have impressed this season in the English top flight with some surprising results. The Bees are 15th in the table with 30 points. Though their recent results have been poor, Brentford cannot be written-off against Chelsea. Manager Thomas Frank has done a brilliant job with Brentford, who are aiming at playing a second successive premier league season.
Brentford Premier League form: L L W W L
Chelsea vs Brentford: Team News
The Blues’ team news
Left-back Ben Chilwell remains out as he is out for the season. On-loan midfielder Saul Niguez had contacted covid-19 and is a doubt for the league game. Andreas Christensen and Kepa Arrizabalaga also sustained minor knocks, but should be available for selection.
Chelsea have received huge boost for the game against Brentford. Reece James and Callum Hudson-Odoi are back in training after both suffered injuries before the international break. However, Tuchel may not risk them as the first leg of Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid follows after Brentford. Christian Pulisic may also remain on the bench only, given he was the last to return from international duty as USA played in the early hours of Thursday morning.
Chelsea possible starting line-up:
Edouard Mendy; Thiago Silva, Rudiger, Malang Sarr; Azpilicueta, Kante, Jorginho, Mount; Ziyech, Havertz, Werner
The Bees’ team news:
Midfielder Josh Dasilva returns to the squad following his ban. However, Brentford will miss the services of attacking mid Saman Ghoddos and center-back Julian Jeanvier. The Brentford midfielder is out after testing positive for the coronavirus and sits out the Chelsea game.
Thomas Frank may again opt for the 4-5-1 formation to contain the Chelsea attack. Ivan Toney will again lead Brentford’s attack as the striker is in decent form scoring 11 times in the league. Christian Eriksen could also return to the starting eleven after the Dane made fabulous comeback to his national side, scoring twice during the international break.
Brentford possible starting line-up:
David Raya; Ajer, Jansson, Pinnock, Rico Henry; Mbeumo, Eriksen, Norgaard, Janelt, Wissa; Ivan Toney
Our Prediction
Chelsea 3-1 Brentford
Chelsea are staring at a sixth consecutive league win. The Blues know Real Madrid are the next after Brentford, and would want to go against the La Liga leaders on the back of a win. Moreover, Brentford are struggling away from home, losing 6 of their last 7 away games. Though Brentford may get on the score-sheet at Stamford Bridge, its Chelsea who are on course to win another three points.
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