Prediction: Chelsea vs Arsenal

Verdict: Chelsea

Best Odds: 21/20

Bookmaker: William Hill

Premier League leaders Chelsea continue their title rout with another big game at the weekend as Antonio Conte prepare to welcome Arsenal, who are looking for a swift return to winning ways following a stunning Watford defeat.

Chelsea

Premier League title chargers Chelsea have been forced to settle for a draw at Anfield on Tuesday night, after playing 1-1 with Liverpool in what has been an exciting match. It all started ever so well for the Blues who got their foot in front thank to a brilliant free-kick goal by David Luiz. Chelsea defender scored his first goal since his return to Blues and it was a perfect way to mark the occasion. Conte’s men were unable to hold on to the lead and have allowed Liverpool to get back in the game through Gini Wijnaldum in the second half. Chelsea lacked aggression and on-man pressing after the interval and it almost cost them the game in the end. Truth be told, the Blues had a great chance to win the game, but Diego Costa’s penalty kick was saved by Mignolet, who did well to make amends for his error with Luiz’s goal.

Team News

Defender Branislav Ivanovic has left the club after his long and loyal service as he moved to Russian giants Zenit on the January transfer Deadline Day.

Antonio Conte will be pleased to report a clean bill of health which will allow him to field the strongest line-up against Arsenal.

Arsenal

The Gunners are coming off from a major disappointment during the week, with Watford snatching a huge 2-1 win at the Emirates on Tuesday night. Having lost their first Premier League game since mid-December, the Gunners also suffered the first home defeat since the season’s opener against Liverpool. It was a blow which left Arsenal with little to no hopes of returning into the title race as the Gunners currently sit in third place, nine points behind the Blues. Another defeat would also be huge dent in Arsenal’s top 4 ambitions as Wenger’s men are only one point in front of Liverpool in fourth place. Arsene Wenger was not particularly happy with his team’s performances against the Hornets, but there was little the Frenchman could have done as he is still serving his four-match touchline ban and will not be in his dugout on Saturday as well.

Team News

 Granti Xhaka is suspended for the forthcoming clash, while Mohamed Elneny and Santi Cazorla continue to miss out for the visitors.

What is more, the key midfielder Aaron Ramsey has picked up a calf injury against Watford and is unlikely to be fit to feature.

Key Factors to Consider

• Chelsea lost only 2 of their last 20 games in all competitions
• The Blues have won ten straight matches on home turf
• Conte’s men conceded only 2 goals in their last 5 matches
• Arsenal were beaten in their last four visits to Stamford Bridge
• The Gunners scored 1 and conceded 12 goals in last 4 encounters with Chelsea

Conclusion

The numbers are against Arsenal, whereas the current form is not playing in their favour as well. Chelsea are the force to be reckoned with at home and their relentless spirit has been their biggest strength thus far. Without Arsene Wenger on the touchline, Arsenal will struggle to pair their rivals on Saturday.

Verdict: Chelsea

Best Odds: 21/20

Bookmaker: William Hill