
Chelsea are in desperate need of putting their run without a win in the Premier League to an end when they return to action against Bournemouth this weekend.
Xabi Alonso’s side have thrilled the neutrals due to their relentless attacking threat, but conceding far too many goals has seen them languishing in mid table after five games.
The boss will be fully aware of the biggest issue he has to sort out at Stamford Bridge. Alonso joined an unwanted club of managers after conceding two or more goals in his first five league games in charge.
Both Chelsea and Bournemouth have a plethora of injury concerns going into this game, with Alex Scott set to miss a number of weeks after picking up an injury while representing England.
Despite problems for both sides, Opta’s supercomputer sees the Blues go into this fixture as favourites. Chelsea have been given a 51.8% chance of winning, with their opponents ranked as having a 25.3% chance of piling more misery on the Blues.
A draw is ranked at a 22.9% chance of happening, which may become a popular prediction amongst supporters. This fixture has been drawn in four of the last six occasions in the Premier League.
Chelsea are hopeful that Cole Palmer will be fit to start after he withdrew from international duty to focus on his fitness. The England international has spent the last 18 months having his career plagued by injury.
There is less optimism that Joao Pedro, Moises Caicedo and Reece James will be fit to feature. Caicedo in particular has struggled with injuries to the point where he is yet to start a game this season.
Chelsea are set for some major fixtures before the next international break, including games against Tottenham, Manchester United and Sunderland. The Ecuador international is going to be required for these challenges.
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