Chelsea vs Sunderland: Team News, Likely Line-up & Predicted Score

Chelsea welcome a rejuvenated Sunderland to Stamford Bridge on Saturday looking for a win to close the gap on the top three in the Premier League table.

The visitors come to the Bridge off the back of a hugely successful Christmas period in which they picked up 10 points from a possible 12 under new manager Martin O’Neill. Whereas Chelsea go in to the game having won only one in their last five league games.

Team News

Chelsea have been boosted with the news that skipper John Terry and forward Daniel Sturridge have both shrugged off knocks and are expected to be fit to play tomorrow.

Branislav Ivanovic and Mikel are both set to miss out with hamstring strains, while Florent Malouda is also doubtful. Michael Essien is on the comeback trial following several months on the sidelines, but the Sunderland game will come too soon for him.

Didier Drogba and Saloman Kalou are unavailable as they are on African Nations Cup duty with the Ivory Coast, so Fernando Torres should continue in attack.

Likely line-up

Predicted Score

Despite Sunderland’s terrific start under Martin O’Neill, Chelsea will still go into the game as firm favourites. Seb Larsson is certainly one to watch for the visitors, particularly at set pieces, but i can see the Blues having too much firepower for Sunderland. 2-0 to Chelsea.

Leave you opinions on the match in the comments section….