Premier League action returns on Saturday after the international break with Chelsea hosting Aston Villa at the Stamford Bridge in one of the day’s games.
The two sides are placed 10th and 11th respectively, but are both on 38 points, the Blues only ahead by a better goal difference.
Chelsea had started getting results going their way, winning two straight league games after previously going five without a win, but Everton halted their resurgence right before the international break when the two sides drew 2-2 at the Bridge.
They will want to return to winning ways as they look to secure at least a Europa League spot. While speaking to the press earlier today, Graham Potter, Chelsea boss said the ambition is to respond positively to the Everton draw.
“It’s going to be an exciting month. The focus for us is to stay present and think about the next game against Aston Villa. We want to respond to the disappointing draw against Everton.”
Chelsea will bank on the fact that Aston Villa has won just once in their last 17 games at the Stamford Bridge, and the last time these two sides met in the league, Chelsea came out a 2-0 victors at Villa Park.
Chelsea had before their 1-0 victory against Leeds early this month scored just one goal in six games, but since that win, they have gone on to score eight in three. They will look to continue with their new found scoring form.
Aston Villa went for the international break on a good note following their 3-0 win over Bournemouth. They will hope to continue with that form, and will hope their in-form striker Ollie Watkins becomes the first player in the club’s history to score in five successive Premier League away games.
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Chelsea will be without Armando Broja, Ceasar Azpilicueta and Thiago Silva. On the sickbed, they will be joined by Raheem Sterling, Wesley Fofana who are both nursing hamstring injuries. Kai Havertz, Reece James, Mason Mount and N’golo Kante are likely to start the game from the bench.
Aston Villa will be without right back Matty Cash, Jed Steer and Philippe Coutinho.
