This fiercely anticipated clash at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium sees two rivals heading in different directions. Tottenham are struggling with injuries and consistency, while Chelsea come into the match buoyed by a dominant victory and an excellent recent run of form.
Tottenham Recent Form
Tottenham have had a mixed bag of results lately. They have only won one of their last six games in all competitions, which was a surprising 4-0 victory over Manchester City.
However, their inconsistency has seen them slide to mid-table. Their recent 1-0 defeat to Bournemouth highlighted their defensive frailties and lack of attacking spark.
Injury and Team News
Spurs' injury woes continue to pile up. Ben Davies has been ruled out with a hamstring issue, joining Micky van de Ven on the sidelines.
Cristian Romero is nearing a return, but it might come too soon for this fixture. Other absentees include Rodrigo Bentancur (suspended), Guglielmo Vicario (ankle), Richarlison (hamstring), and Wilson Odobert (hamstring).
Postecoglou is likely to recall Son Heung-min to the starting XI after his brief appearance against Bournemouth.
Last Tottenham Lineup
Here is how Tottenham lined up in their last match against Bournemouth:
Chelsea Recent Form
Chelsea are in impressive form, winning each of their last four games in all competitions. Their recent 5-1 demolition of Southampton showed their attacking potency, with goals from Christopher Nkunku, Cole Palmer, and Noni Madueke.
This run has lifted them to second in the Premier League table, just seven points off leaders Liverpool.
Injury and Team News
Chelsea’s injuries are primarily in defence. Wesley Fofana and Reece James remain out with hamstring issues.
Mykhaylo Mudryk is sidelined with illness. Otherwise, Chelsea's squad is largely fit, with Levi Colwill and Robert Sanchez set to return to the backline. Axel Disasi, who scored last time out, is likely to retain his place.
Last Chelsea Lineup
Here is how Chelsea lined up in their 5-1 win over Southampton:
Tottenham vs Chelsea - Who is the Referee and VAR?
Referee: Anthony Taylor.
Assistants: Gary Beswick, Adam Nunn.
Fourth official: Lewis Smith.
VAR: Jarred Gillett.
Assistant VAR: Mark Scholes.
Tottenham Player to Watch
Son Heung-min
With Tottenham suffering from a depleted defence, Son will need to carry the attacking burden. His pace and clinical finishing will be key if Spurs are to trouble Chelsea's resolute defence.
Chelsea Player to Watch
Cole Palmer
Palmer has once again been the focal point for Chelsea this season. His creativity and goal-scoring ability have added dynamism to Chelsea's attack, and he could exploit the gaps in Tottenham's defence.
Prediction
Given Tottenham's injury crisis, especially in defence, and Chelsea's impressive recent form, the visitors are likely to come out on top.
Our Prediction: Tottenham Hotspur 1-3 Chelsea
Betting Tips
Tip 1
Chelsea to Win - With their current form and Tottenham's defensive issues, backing Chelsea for the win is a solid option.
Tip 2
Both Teams to Score - Despite their struggles, Tottenham have managed to score in nine of their last ten home games.
Tip 3
Cole Palmer Anytime Scorer - Palmer is in fine form and takes penalties for Chelsea, increasing his chances of getting on the scoresheet.
