Chelsea travel to Portman Road to face struggling Ipswich Town in their final Premier League final fixture of 2024.
The Blues are looking to bounce back from a surprising Boxing Day defeat to Fulham, while Ipswich aim to end their woeful home run. Here's the match preview:
Chelsea Recent Form
Chelsea had enjoyed an impressive run with nine consecutive victories in all competitions after the November international break. However, their momentum faltered with a draw against Everton followed by a 2-1 home loss to Fulham.
This has placed them fourth in the league table, seven points behind leaders Liverpool. However, Chelsea have been reliable away from home, with Liverpool being the only team to defeat them on the road this season.
Ipswich Recent Form
Ipswich are enduring a torrid spell, having lost five of their last six games. The Tractor Boys are winless at home in nine attempts this season, securing just four points from those matches.
This dismal form has left them in the relegation zone, raising even more concerns about their ability to compete at the Premier League level.
Injury and Team News
Chelsea: The Blues will be without Reece James, Wesley Fofana, and Benoit Badiashile in defence. Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall is doubtful, and Romeo Lavia is a 50/50 call after returning to training. Mykhaylo Mudryk is unavailable due to suspension.
Ipswich: The hosts face injury concerns with Chiedozie Ogbene and George Hirst ruled out. Massimo Luongo’s availability remains uncertain following illness, while Sam Morsy is set to return after suspension.
Last Chelsea Lineup
Chelsea's last starting XI (versus Fulham):
Last Ipswich Lineup
Ipswich's last starting XI (versus Arsenal):
Chelsea vs Ipswich - Referee and VAR
Referee: John Brooks.
Assistants: Simon Bennett, Sam Lewis.
Fourth official: Darren Bond.
VAR: Michael Oliver.
Assistant VAR: Nick Greenhalgh.
Chelsea Player to Watch
Christopher Nkunku: Chelsea’s forward has been in excellent form since recovering from injury. His creativity and sharp finishing will be vital against Ipswich’s fragile defence.
Ipswich Player to Watch
Liam Delap: The young striker offers Ipswich their best attacking outlet. His pace and work rate will be key if the hosts are to threaten Chelsea’s backline.
Prediction
Chelsea should recover from their Boxing Day setback with a comfortable win against an out-of-sorts Ipswich. The Tractor Boys’ struggles at home make this an ideal opportunity for Chelsea to keep the pressure on their title rivals.
Our Prediction: Ipswich 0-3 Chelsea
Betting Tips
Tip 1
Chelsea to Win to Nil: Ipswich’s inability to score consistently at home makes this a solid bet.
Tip 2
Over 2.5 Goals: Given Chelsea’s attacking quality, this match could see a flurry of goals.
Tip 3
Christopher Nkunku to Score Anytime: The Chelsea forward is likely to find the net against Ipswich’s leaky defence.
