EPL Preview – Chelsea v Arsenal

Chelsea v Arsenal
Stamford Bridge
Sunday 7th February 2010

Chelsea may have stumbled to a 1-1 draw at Hull City in midweek, possibly distracted by the furore surrounding skipper John Terry’s private life, but they remain two points clear at the top of the table and have picked up an astonishing 34 points from their twelve home games so far this term. Salomon Kalou is expected to return to the starting line-up on Sunday after being rested for the last two games following his exertions at the African Cup of Nations, while Ashley Cole should slot back in at left-back against his former club following his recovery from a minor injury picked up in last month’s win at Burnley.

Arsenal, meanwhile, will make the short trip across London still smarting from their comprehensive defeat at the hands of Manchester United last weekend, a result which placed a major dent in their title ambitions. One positive to come out of that disappointing display at the Emirates was another substitute appearance for frontman Nicklas Bendter who now looks close to full fitness and may be handed a starting role against the league leaders.

Eduardo and Abou Diaby should also be available after missing the United game through injury and there could be a recall to the starting eleven for Welsh starlet Aaron Ramsey.

A positive result is vital for Arsene Wenger’s side if they are to prevent the battle for the title from becoming a two-horse race, but with only one win from their last eight trips to Stamford Bridge and the Blues unbeaten at home this season, it’s hard to see the Gunners heading back to North London anything other than empty-handed.

Prediction: Chelsea 2-0 Arsenal