Premier League preview: Chelsea v Everton

Chelsea will welcome their bogey side Everton to Stamford Bridge, aiming to beat the Toffees for the first time since May 2009.

The Londoners have failed to take all three points since their win over Everton in the FA Cup final that year, with Chelsea led to victory by then caretaker coach Guus Hiddink.

Since that memorable Wembley encounter, Everton have won two and drawn two of their Premier League fixtures, while David Moyes’ men won their fourth-round FA Cup replay earlier this year on penalties – after the replay itself, and the initial fixture, both finished 1-1.

In another baffling streak, Chelsea have not beaten Everton in a Premier League clash at Stamford Bridge in their past five at the venue – with each of the matches ending in draws, but just one of which ended scoreless.

Another scoreless draw could be on the cards too, as Chelsea have failed to keep a clean sheet in their past six Premier League clashes.

This season, however, might prove the end to the winless streaks for Andre Villas-Boas’ men, as the former Porto boss is yet to lead his men against Moyes’ side.

Chelsea have been the ‘quiet achiever’ of the season thus far, while the talent-laden Manchester sides have stolen the headlines.

The Londoners are just three points behind the equal-leading Manchester outfits and with midfielder Michael Essien their only injury concern, Chelsea can mount a serious title challenge with consistent results.

Striker Fernando Torres will sit out the clash as he continues to serve his three-game ban.

Everton are also faring well in the medical department with Victor Anichebe the only unavailable member for the boys from Goodison Park.