Saturday s game is a vital match for both sides as Chelsea look to reclaim their place at the top of the premier league and fight off the very real and strong threat of Manchester United and Arsenal, whilst three points would make West Ham begin to look safe, but a loss could draw them right back into the relegation mire if other results don t go their way.
Chelsea have for so long been regarded as most people s favourites for the league this year we have hardly nnoticed Arsenal and Manchester United creep up on them. The Stark reality is that Chelsea are now second in the league, albeit trailing by two points with a game in hand. Arsenal are very very close behind and are in a rich vein of form. With Cech, Boswinga, Essien and Cole all out injured they do have key men missing and the continued and well documented contract negotiations between club and Joe Cole cannot be helping the morale of the team. Despite these in house problems, Chelsea will go into this match as clear favourites.
West Ham are in a strange no mans land at the moment where they are not really being mentioned as potential relegation candidates I m sure that they realise that a couple of bad performances could see them right back in trouble. They currently lie in 16th place just three points above the relegation zone and having only picked up 7 points from their last six games, you can hardly say they are on form. Injuries are not too much of a concern for Gianfranco Zola, with most key players available, but they will miss the presene of Ilunga. Recent signing Mido is still looking to show what he can do having returned to the Premierleague with some what of a point to prove.
Verdict: Chelsea Home Win
Odds: 2/9
Bookmaker:
