Chelsea FC host Sunderland in the Premier League on Saturday, just two days after sacking manager Jose Mourinho.
The last time these two teams met at Stamford Bridge, seven months ago, Chelsea were crowned Barclays Premier League champions and rounded off the season with a 3-1 win over the Black Cats in a carnival atmosphere.
More chelsea fc: Jose Mourinho Sacked: Story Hub
The mood this Saturday, however, will be completely different. Chelsea will likely be managerless after Jose Mourinho’s dismissal and should they get a replacement in, the new boss will have had just hours to prepare his side for the match. Sensationally, the game is a real six-pointer between two teams struggling at the bottom of the table.
Rumours claim that Guus Hiddink is the man that will be in charge by Saturday afternoon, but Michael Emenalo’s interview suggested that the fixture will be dealt with internally. Whether it is Hiddink or Steve Holland, the man on the touchline will undoubtedly feel the tension emanating from the Stamford Bridge faithful.
Team News:
Whoever picks Chelsea’s team will have almost a full squad of players to choose from, as there are only a few minor injuries to deal with. Eden Hazard, who limped off Monday night against Leicester with a hip injury, is a concern, but it is unclear whether he will play or not. Radamel Falcao also remains unlikely to feature.
More from The Pride of London
- Bournemouth 0-0 Chelsea player ratings: Abysmal, reckless, wasteful
- Bournemouth 0-0 Chelsea: 3 Blues talking points
- Bournemouth vs Chelsea: 1 Blue Mauricio Pochettino should drop
- Bournemouth vs Chelsea: 3 Blues who must start
- Predicted Chelsea lineup vs Bournemouth: Palmer starts in 4-2-3-1
Decisions will have to be made between players that are match fit and who are battling for a spot in the starting eleven. As Diego Costa has shown limited signs of getting back to his best, second choice striker Loic Remy could be inline for a rare start, especially after his consolation goal against Leicester on Monday.
Choices will also be made in midfield, with Cesc Fabregas, who has been dropped recently by now ex-boss Mourinho, looking likely to start. After being subbed off against Leicester, John Terry may be benched if the interim coach decides to go with Gary Cahill alongside Kurt Zouma instead.
Sunderland have a few injured players who will miss the trip to Stamford Bridge. Seb Larsson, Lee Cattermole and Sebastian Coates are three big names that are unlikely to play, as Sam Allardyce’s men look to take advantage of Chelsea’s current turmoil.
Stats:
Sunderland beat Chelsea two seasons ago at Stamford Bridge, which was Jose Mourinho’s first defeat as Chelsea manager at home in the Premier League (78 games).
The Blues sit just one point above the relegation zone, and just three above 19th placed Sunderland. A win for the away side would see them join Chelsea on 15 points, and potentially drop the Blues into the relegation zone as well.
More chelsea fc: Chelsea FC’s Cesc Fabregas Thanks Jose Mourinho Following Dismissal
Writer’s Prediction:
Chelsea 2-0 Sunderland
Let us know your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!