Chelsea vs West Ham Preview, Team News, Likely Line-Ups, Key Man + Predicted Score

Chelsea play host to West Ham at Stamford Bridge this evening aiming to go top of the Premier League.

The Blues head into the game sitting third in the table – three points off leaders Arsenal – so a win by two or more goals tonight would see them go top on goal difference as long as Manchester City fail to beat Tottenham at White Hart Lane.

Jose Mourinho’s side are on an excellent recent run that’s seen them win seven games on the bounce in all competitions. The latest victory was a 1-0 win over Stoke City in the FA Cup on Sunday which booked them a mouth-watering clash at the Etihad against City in the fifth round.

But it’s Premier League action that’s on the agenda this evening and they’ll be facing London rivals West Ham, who are desperate for points at the opposite end of the table.

A run of five losses in six games has seen Sam Allardyce’s side drop down the table and they currently sit 18th, level on points with bottom side Cardiff, so will be keen to secure a morale-boosting result tonight to aid their relegation fight.

Team News

Chelsea will no longer be able to call upon the services of Juan Mata after selling him to Manchester United and his replacement Mohamed Salah is not yet available as he’s still not back in the country after completing his move from FC Basel.

Fernando Torres remains out with a knee injury so Samuel Eto’o is expected to start but otherwise Mourinho has no other injury concerns. Marco van Ginkel remains a long-term casualty.

The Hammers will have new signings Antonio Nocerino and Marco Borriello in the squad although it remains to be seen whether Allardyce will throw them straight into action or start them from the bench.

Kevin Nolan is set to return after completing a four-match suspension but Joe Cole misses out with a groin injury.

Likely Line-Ups

Key Man

Oscar: The Brazilian has been in excellent form of late and along with Eden Hazard, is going to be the Blues major attacking threat once again. Keeping him quiet is going to be vital if West Ham want to take anything from the game.

Predicted Score

Chelsea 2-0 West Ham: Chelsea are pretty formidable at home and we can’t see past a comfortable win again here.

What team would you start and what’s your score prediction? Share your views below.