Chelsea host West Ham on Saturdayplaceholder image
Chelsea host West Ham on Saturday | Getty Images
A look at the pundit predictions for the Premier League clash between London rivals Chelsea and West Ham.
Chelsea and West Ham are back in Premier League action on Saturday when they face off against each other at Stamford Bridge. Both of these teams have been in good form of late, with the Blues enjoying a fine start under Liam Rosenior, moving to within one point of fourth spot and progressing to the Champions League Round of 16.
West Ham have picked up back-to-back wins in their last two games, with their relegation battle threatening to come to life with wins over Tottenham and Sunderland. The Iron now look to have a fighting chance as they also look to strengthen their squad significantly this month, already making three new signings.
Here we round up the pundit predictions from BBC Sport’s Chris Sutton and SportsKeeda’s Paul Merson ahead of what is a fascinating clash at Stamford Bridge.
Chris Sutton
“What a great result Chelsea had against Napoli in the Champions League on Wednesday. I know Napoli have been no great shakes in Europe but they still rarely lose at home and that was a statement win for Liam Rosenior, which should silence some of his doubters.
“As for West Ham, who knows what to expect? After looking hopeless a few weeks ago, they have had a couple of wins and are three unbeaten in all competitions. I just wonder if Chelsea might be a bit fatigued after midweek, and this could be quite tight, but I still think they will win it. Prediction: 2-1.”
Paul Merson
“West Ham have turned a corner, or maybe you could say they are going around the bend. That win for Nottingham Forest did not help them last weekend, but back-to-back victories have lifted the Hammers' spirits.
“Many people forget that this is a massive local derby. Chelsea are fighting to finish in the top four and West Ham are trying to avoid relegation. I like these type of games where everything is on the line. Lucas Paqueta has left West Ham. When you are in the battle to avoid relegation, you need players like him because of the X-factor they bring to the team. I know Paqueta has not been producing consistent performances this season, but West Ham will miss him.
“It's not a good sale in my opinion because I don't think West Ham can now bring in a new midfielder with the same quality in January. They will hope Crysencio Summerville and Jarrod Bowen can bring the X-factor now.
“Joao Pedro is enjoying a good run in front of goal for Chelsea. He scored two good goals against Napoli in midweek and looks composed. But no one is going to be the top man at Chelsea ahead of Moises Caicedo! If you asked me to name a Chelsea player who shouldn't miss the game against West Ham, it will be Caicedo for sure. West Ham have a free swing here. I don't expect them to beat Chelsea, but they can definitely make this an entertaining watch. Prediction: Chelsea 2-1 West Ham United.”
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