The Daily Star Ireland
After missing out on the top four for the past two seasons, Chelsea is aiming to secure a Champions League spot this year. Under the guidance of Enzo Maresca, the team has performed well so far, currently sitting in 3rd place in the Premier League, tied on points with 5th place. Their only losses this season came against top teams Manchester City (0-2) and Liverpool (2-1). Since that defeat to Liverpool, Chelsea has gone four matches without losing, including draws against Manchester United (1-1) and Arsenal (1-1), and victories over Newcastle (2-1) and Leicester (1-2) last weekend.
Aston Villa, who made a remarkable return to the Champions League last season under manager Unai Emery, is now in 8th place, 3 points behind the top four. However, their form has dipped in recent weeks, failing to win any of their last four matches, with 2 draws and 2 losses. Villa’s recent results include defeats to Tottenham (4-1) and Liverpool (2-0), as well as a 2-2 draw at home against Crystal Palace last weekend.
Chelsea is missing key players, including full-back Reece James, who has had recurring injury issues, and striker Kellyman. Winger Pedro Neto is also doubtful after missing the last match. In their last game, midfielder Enzo Fernandez was outstanding, contributing a goal and an assist, while striker Jackson, with 7 goals and 3 assists in the Premier League, also scored. He will be supported by Cole Palmer, who has 7 goals and 5 assists but has not scored in the last three league matches.
Aston Villa will be without midfielder Onana and winger Ramsey, who is a potential starter. However, defenders Konsa and midfielder Kamara have returned to the squad. Villa’s attack is led by forwards Rogers (3 goals and 2 assists) and Watkins (6 goals and 2 assists), with Duran (4 goals) less prominent in recent matches. In goal, Emiliano Martinez continues to perform well, despite his controversial reputation.
Prediction
Chelsea’s strong home form, with 15 unbeaten matches and 11 victories, suggests they will be confident heading into this game. Aston Villa, in contrast, has struggled on the road, losing four of their last six away games and collecting only 10 points from 25.
Prediction: Chelsea 2-0 Aston Villa.
