Prediction: Chelsea vs Brentford

Prediction: Chelsea win

Best Odds: 1/3

Bookmaker: 888sport

The international break has been and gone and in its place, we have the return of Premier League football. We’re closing in on the final eight-game stretch of the season and it’s time to start whittling down the contenders in a range of different mini-contests up and down the table. Today, we’ll be taking a look at what should be an enticing clash between London rivals Chelsea and Brentford.

Chelsea

If you put the Roman Abramovich issues to one side, there’s a lot to be impressed by within this Chelsea team. They’ve started to put everything together since the League Cup final defeat to Liverpool and in doing so, they’ve kept themselves in the hunt as viable frontrunners on three different fronts. Given the strength in depth they have, we’d be somewhat surprised if they didn’t end the season with a piece of silverware.

Team News

Chilwell is a confirmed absentee through injury here with the following players being listed as doubtful: Saul, Arrizabalaga, Christensen, Hudson-Odoi, James and Pulisic.

Brentford

Brentford were causing quite the stir when the campaign first got underway but as we’ve moved forward past the new year, they’ve been found out by quite a few teams. Their style of play means they’ve still been able to grind out some nice wins and draws but just because they’re eight points above the relegation zone, we don’t think they can afford to get complacent.

Team News

Ghoddos is out due to a bout with COVID, Jeanvier also won’t be making an appearance, Dasilva returns following a ban and Eriksen has been tipped to start from the word go.

Factors to Consider

• Chelsea are 3rd in the Premier League whereas Brentford are 15th.
• Chelsea have won their last six games in all competitions.
• Brentford have won two, drawn one and lost three of their last six games.
• Chelsea have scored 15 goals and conceded four in their last six games.
• Brentford have scored seven goals and conceded seven in their last six games.

Conclusion

Brentford will likely sit in and be able to frustrate Chelsea for long periods, as was the case when Newcastle came to town – but there’s a newly discovered resilience within this Blues squad that’s worth keeping an eye on. We expect them to break the visitors down early in the second half before going on to secure a comfortable 2-0 win and keep themselves safely in third place.

Prediction: Chelsea win

Best Odds: 1/3

Bookmaker: 888sport