Prediction: Chelsea vs Crystal Palace

Verdict: Chelsea to win and BTTS

Best Odds: 5/2

Bookmaker: Bet365

Chelsea host Crystal Palace in the Premier League on Saturday as they look to extend their lead at the top of the table to 12 points. However, Sam Allardyce’s men will be hoping for an upset in the London derby after a fine run of form recently.

Chelsea

It would take a very brave man to bet against Chelsea winning the title this season. They are currently 10 points ahead of Tottenham Hotspur who sit in second place and are enjoying a 12 game unbeaten run. Antonio Conte’s men are only seven wins from being crowed champions and if they succeed, the Italian will ensure he lifts the title in his debut season in England. The Blues’ record at Stamford Bridge this campaign has been phenomenal, only losing once to Liverpool 2-1 in September. However, the North London club have conceded in their last six games which is a slight worry. Fans will also be concerned that Conte and Eden Hazard are constantly being linked with moves away from the club and will be desperate to tie the due down on long-term contracts. However, Chelsea have managed to forget about all the distractions once they are on the pitch and look likely to take another step towards the title on Saturday.

Team News

Antonio Conte should have the luxury of choosing from a full squad at the weekend.

Diego Costa, Thibault Courtois and Eden Hazard all missed out for their international teams during the break but should be passed fit to play Palace.

Victor Moses could be a slight concern after picking up a calf strain whilst away with Nigeria.

Crystal Palace

After a slow start since manager Sam Allardyce’s appointment in December, Crystal Palace seem to have finally woken up by winning four of their last six league games. Three victories on the bounce, and three clean sheets, against Middlesbrough, West Bromwich Albion and Watford have steered the South London side four points clear of the relegation zone having played a game less than their rivals. Allardyce will be motivated by the fact Palace have a better record away from Selhurst Park this season, although they have still only managed to win two of their last 10 and playing at Stamford Bridge will be a daunting task. Mamadou Sakho will be in for a tough test against Chelsea’s attacking prowess but his presence in the Palace back four will surely improve the defensive side of their game and they will be looking to keep it tight for as long as possible. The relegation-threatened club will be hoping to snatch at least one goal through the flair of Wilfried Zaha and Andros Townsend and even though they are in a decent run of form, they ultimately could be in for a long afternoon against the league runaway leaders.

Team News

Patrick van Aanholt looks set to miss the game as he recovers from an ankle injury and James McArthur is a doubt after picking up a knock in training.

Loic Remy is still injured and would be ineligible to face his parent club anyway.

Connor Wickham is out which means Christian Benteke will start up front.

Key Factors to Consider

• Chelsea have won four of their last five games against Crystal Palace
• Palace have only won once at Stamford Bridge in the top flight – in 2015
• Chelsea have the most points in all London derbies this season in the league (15)
• The Eagles have lost all five derbies they have taken part in
• If Costa scores on Saturday it will be his 50^th in the Premier League

Conclusion

Chelsea will have too much for Crystal Palace at home as their record at Stamford Bridge is near enough perfect. Even though Sam Allardyce’s men are in a resurgent patch of form they will find the Blues too strong for them. However, we are backing the Eagles to score against Chelsea and give their travelling fans something to shout about.

Verdict: Chelsea to win and BTTS

Best Odds: 5/2

Bookmaker: Bet 365