Chelsea take on Southampton at Stamford Bridge as both teams look to build on strong wins from last weekend.
A win will take Chelsea to within three points of Manchester City, whereas Southampton could improve to 13th position with victory and results elsewhere swinging their way.
Team news
Embed from Getty ImagesMateo Kovacic is suspended for this match after picking up a fifth booking on Sunday at Tottenham.
Cesar Azpilicueta is doubtful with a tight hamstring but will be subjected to a late fitness test.
Ruben Loftus-Cheek (Achilles) and Marco van Ginkel (knee) both remain long-term absentees.
Southampton could have Moussa Djenepo available after he missed Saturday’s away win over Aston Villa with a hamstring injury.
Shane Long meanwhile is a doubt after picking up a knee injury during the win at Villa, which prevented him from training on Xmas Eve.
Kevin Danso could also feature after recovering from illness, but Yan Valery (illness) remain sidelined until the New Year.
Stat Attack
- Chelsea are unbeaten in their last nine meetings with Southampton in all competitions (W8, D1).
- Southampton have failed to win in five previous Boxing Day meetings between the teams (D2, L3).
- Both teams have met at Stamford Bridge in same calendar year once before this decade, drawing 2-2 in January 2013 before Chelsea won 3-1 in December 2013.
- Cesar Azpilicueta is the only Chelsea player to have made double figure number of blocks so far this season, managing 11 blocks in 16 appearances.
- James Ward-Prowse is the only Southampton player to have scored a penalty this season.
Prediction
Chelsea were brilliant against Tottenham on Sunday from their counter-attacking to organisation, as well as discipline in the face of deplorable racism and fouls which suggests that recent performances were just a blip.
Southampton however will be a tough test because they too have shown excellent organisation and attacking ability in recent weeks, although defending is still an issue at times.
I therefore can see Southampton looking to get on the front foot early on and control this game, but Chelsea should have enough to snatch a win here given the depth in their squad.
Prediction: Chelsea 2-1 Southampton
Result: Chelsea 0-2 Southampton