Chelsea host relegation-threatened side Bournemouth as they look to build some lost momentum and get back to their best. The Cherries have been resurgent of late but have won just two games on their travels all season, a morale-boosting stat for Chelsea at their fortress.
The Blues have always had the upper hand over Eddie Howe’s side since they were promoted to the first tier. Eden Hazard has scored five in his last four against them, while the South coast club have never won a Premier League match on a Wednesday.
The Pensioners have conceded just 0.7 goals per game on an average this season and another clean sheet is very much on the cards, as Bournemouth have failed to convert chances into goals in three out of their previous five visits to West London.
Latest team news
Alvaro Morata is back and should be back in the Matchday squad, if not the starting lineup.
Cesc Fabregas and Thibaut Courtois are nearing full fitness. The former will mostly return to the starting XI.
Ross Barkley still waits for his first start while Alvaro Morata, David Luiz and Willian have been ruled out.
Predicted lineup: (3-4-3)
Defence
Willy Caballero has kept two clean sheets in a row and will start in goal as Courtois is doubtful.
The back three will consist of returning Cesar Azpilicueta, who will be fresh coming into this game. The vice-captain is one of the most formidable defenders around.
He will be accompanied by Ethan Ampadu, who might replace Andreas Christensen. The Dane needs some rest after having filled David Luiz’s boots and played a couple of games on the bounce.
Gary Cahill is set to lead the side on the left side of the back three.
The wingbacks will be Marcos Alonso, who was on song against Newcastle in the FA Cup. On the opposite side, will be the quick, powerful and disciplined Victor Moses.
Midfield
N’Golo Kante and Tiemoue Bakayoko will start in midfield. Kanté deserves a much-needed rest after having played quite a lot of games but injuries elsewhere mean that the Frenchman could once again start in the midfield.
Pedro and Cesc Fabregas are expected to add the creativity and play behind the striker.
Attack
With Morata unavailable, expect Eden Hazard to play in the false 9 role. Michy Batshuayi would have started considering his form but he is expected to leave the club, so Hazard will shoulder the responsibility of leading the line.
