Chelsea will look to continue their excellent run of form when they host Wolves at the Stamford Bridge on Sunday.
The Blues are coming on the back of three wins on the trot in all competition, but things could get tricky against a Wolves side, who have a solid record against the Premier League top six this season.
Here are three key battles that might decide the outcome of the game.
#3 Pedro vs Willy Boly
Pedro is arguably the most in-form player going into this match as he continued his good performances in the win over Dynamo Kiev on Thursday.
The Spaniard made a host key runs into the final third and despite missing a glorious opportunity to score, he will be a big threat for the Wolves defence this weekend.
Indeed, Pedro’s energy and clever movement in the final third have already caused a lot of problems for opposition teams in the past few weeks. Thus, it will be imperative for the Wolves to prevent the 31-year old from making an impact on Sunday and that’s where Willy Boly comes into the fray.
Boly has been one of Wolves’ best defenders this season and the 31-year-old can offer the physicality in defence, which could prove to be key in dealing with the tricky Pedro.
#2 Emerson vs Matt Doherty
Emerson is once again the favourite to start over the underperforming Marcos Alonso in the left-back position for Chelsea. And the Brazilian will have a point to prove, after being benched in the win over Kiev in midweek.
The Brazilian has good technical quality while he also excels in one-on-one situations, meaning he can certainly offer additional attacking support from the left flank. But, it will be interesting to see how he deals with Wolves’ right wing-back in Matt Doherty.
The Irish international has been one of the most consistent performers for Wolves this season, and his willingness to whip in crosses into the box will be one of Wolves’ main source of creativity this weekend.
#1 David Luiz vs Raul Jimenez
Wolves forward Raul Jimenez will be the focal point of his side’s attack as they look to breach the Chelsea backline. The Mexican international has impressed with his excellent hold-up play and neat combination play with Diogo Jota and co.
Jimenez has also netted eleven goals this season and will be one of the biggest threats for Chelsea. However, standing in his way will be David Luiz, who is coming on the back of an excellent performance against Dynamo Kiev in midweek.
The Brazilian international was solid with his passing and dominant with his tackles but could face a stern test against the tricky Jimenez.
