Chelsea faces the risk of enduring three consecutive Premier League defeats for the first time in the Mauricio Pochettino era as they return to Stamford Bridge to encounter a resurgent Sheffield United on Saturday afternoon.
The Blues’ struggles continued in a 2-0 loss to Everton last weekend, while Sheffield United managed a 1-0 victory over Brentford under Chris Wilder’s guidance.
Match Preview
Chelsea, despite a strong start away from home earlier in the season, has seen their away performances deteriorate.
They faced defeats against Newcastle United and Manchester United and a shaky home win against Brighton & Hove Albion. Last week’s loss to Everton added to their woes, leaving them in 12th place on the Premier League table.
Manager Pochettino has called for reinforcements in the upcoming transfer window to address the team’s issues.
Another defeat on Saturday would mark a rare occurrence for Pochettino, who last experienced three consecutive Premier League losses with Southampton in December 2013.
Meanwhile, Chris Wilder’s return to Sheffield United has been relatively positive. After a loss to Liverpool, the Blades secured a crucial victory against Brentford.
Despite sitting at the bottom of the table, they’re just behind Burnley on goal difference and have a one-point gap to Luton Town.
However, Sheffield United has struggled away from home, being the only Premier League team without an away win this season. They face a daunting task at Stamford Bridge, where they’ve not won against Chelsea since 1999.
Team News
Chelsea faces injury concerns with goalkeeper Robert Sanchez and captain Reece James both leaving the Everton game due to injuries. A number of other players, including Marc Cucurella, also face fitness doubts.
On the other side, Sheffield United’s Jack Robinson is suspended for this match, while several other players remain sidelined due to injuries.
Possible Lineups
Chelsea: (4-2-3-1)
Petrovic;
Disasi, Silva, Badiashile, Colwill;
Fernandez, Caicedo;
Sterling, Gallagher, Palmer;
Jackson
Sheffield United: (4-5-1)
Foderingham;
Bogle, Ahmedhodzic, Trusty, Lowe;
McAtee, Norwood, Souza, Hamer, Archer;
McBurnie
Prediction: Chelsea 2-0 Sheffield United
Despite Chelsea’s recent struggles at home, Sheffield United’s poor away record makes it unlikely for them to pull off an upset. While Chelsea might not dominate, they are expected to secure a comfortable victory and regain some confidence at Stamford Bridge.
