Chelsea finally welcome back Michael Essien and John Terry to a first team squad desperate for some of their key personnel back. Terry’s presence allows Brazilian Alex to at last undergo the knee surgery he has been putting off for the last two weeks, and Essien may well replace the beleaguered Ramires in the centre of the park.
Everton have slipped back in the last few weeks, and there may well be genuine concern should David Moyes’ side fail to get something out of their trip to Stamford Bridge. Tim Cahill remains the main goal scoring threat for the Toffees, and with Mikel Arteta beginning a suspension for his sending off against West Brom last week, Everton may find the returning Essien too much to deal with.
Chelsea have to end their winless streak if they are to remain in this year’s race for the title. I just about fancy them to do so, but Everton have always had the capacity to surprise the club from West London.
Prediction: 2-0
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