Hello and welcome to **football.london** for live coverage of Chelsea's Premier League meeting with Sunderland this afternoon.
The Blues welcome the Black Cats to Stamford Bridge today as they bid for their fifth victory in a row in all competitions. Enzo Maresca's side beat Ajax on Wednesday evening in the Champions League and the Chelsea head coach will be hoping to continue such momentum later on this afternoon.
However, in their way are the high-flying Sunderland, who could move above the Blues with three points in SW6. Chelsea are without the likes of Cole Palmer, Liam Delap, Malo Gusto, Levi Colwill and Dario Essugo, while the visitors are set to be without Omar Alderete, Habib Diarra, Leo Hjelde, Romaine Mundle, Dennis Cirkin, Ajibola Alese and Omar Fernandez.
While Chelsea go into the match as big favourites, Maresca is well aware of the threat the away side will bring with them. It makes for a fascinating contest at Stamford Bridge - and you can follow along with every kick with **Bobby Vincent** bringing you live updates from west London.
KEY EVENT
Hello and welcome to **football.london** for live coverage of Chelsea's Premier League meeting with Sunderland this afternoon.
The Blues are looking to make it five wins in succession today as the high-flying Black Cats come to Stamford Bridge.
Kick-off in SW6 is scheduled for 3pm (UK time). **Bobby Vincent** is in west London throughout the day to bring you live updates and analysis, so stay tuned!
Enzo Maresca during Chelsea's Champions League win over Ajax (Image: Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC)