Chelsea vs Stoke: Team News, Likely Line-ups & Predicted Score

Chelsea welcome Stoke City to Stamford Bridge on Saturday with interim manager Roberto Di Matteo set to take charge of his first Premier League game.

Di Matteo will be looking to build upon the Blues 2-0 FA Cup win over Birmingham on Tuesday but will know that they face tough opposition in Stoke City, who have won their last two league games keeping clean sheets on both occasions.

Chelsea head into the game having won only one of their previous six league games and with difficult matches with Man City and Tottenham coming up, a home win this Saturday is vital if they are to push for a top-four finish.

Team News

Di Matteo rested a number of players for the midweek tie at St. Andrews so we should expect changes on Saturday.

Chelsea have received a massive boost this week with the news that captain John Terry has recovered from his knee injury ahead of schedule and could even start this weekend. Although a substitute appearances appears more likely.

Ashley Cole is also in line to return after recovering from an ankle injury, but Jose Bosingwa is still out.

Tony Pulis is expected to name an un-changed line-up following last weeks win over Norwich. The only slight doubt is Andy Wilkinson, who was forced off early on last week, but the defender is likely to play.

Likely Line-ups

Predicted score

Stoke have a poor record at Stamford Bridge and have conceded 11 goals in their last two visits, something Tony Pulis will be keen at address.

However, judging by their improved display on Tuesday, it looks like Roberto Di Matteo has the backing of his players and that will be key for Chelsea as they battle for a top-four place. We predicted a relatively tight game, but the home side will have enough to edge it. Chelsea 1-0 Stoke

What are your thoughts on the game? What will the score be? Get involved in the comments section…