Game Week 9 Predictions: Straight win Chelsea against Sunderland

Chelsea host Sunderland at Stamford Bridge. Both teams level on points, but Blues favored to win despite injuries. Can Black Cats upset the odds?

Chelsea seeks to continue their strong run with a win over Sunderland at Stamford Bridge, will they find joy against the Black Cats? (Photo credit: 90Mins)

Chelsea vs. Sunderland.

Stamford Bridge Stadium

3:00pm

It’s the first fixture of the day, the second of the weekend after Leeds United condemned West Ham to another defeat, one that puts more pressure on Nuno Espirito Santo.

The Blues will be home to the Black Cats, and what is quite interesting about this fixture is the fact that both sides are on the same points (14), and Chelsea are only ahead on goal difference. Is Sunderland the surprise package of this season?

The Black Cats can surge into second spot with a win, and it can also get better for them if some results go their way. Are we seeing another Nottingham Forest? Could the Black Cats surpass Nottingham Forest and emerge as a new Leicester City?

Chelsea beat Nottingham Forest last weekend, a result that cost Ange Postecoglou his job at the City Ground, while Sunderland beat Wolves 2-0. The Blues were in action in Europe in midweek, beating Ajax silly, while Sunderland rested the whole week and should be a lot fresher.

What is so exciting about Sunderland? From the unassuming demeanour of their manager, Regis Le Bris, the energy of their captain, Granit Xhaka, and the compact nature of their squad. They attack together and defend as a unit, disciplined in positional play and dangerous on set pieces; they will trouble Chelsea.

Regardless of how exciting Sunderland is, Chelsea remains the clear favourite to win this one. It’s a home game; the Blues are on a roll after a run of wins which started with the 2-1 win over the champions, and pedigree will always see them rated a lot higher than the Black Cats.

Chelsea knows that a win would help their cause as they chase Arsenal on the log. There are no talks of a potential title charge; they just want to be among the front runners for as long as possible and then see what happens if the Gunners slip up or Manchester City doesn’t get their mojo.

The Blues are still without Cole Palmer, who is suffering from a groin problem; Malo Gusto serves his ban following his red card at Forest, and Romeo Lavia will be assessed ahead of kickoff. Acheampong is expected to return as centre back alongside Tosin, and captain Reece James will be restored to right back.

The visitors will be without Omar Alderete due to concussion rules, but Reinildo is back after serving his three-match ban. Wilson Isidor is expected to lead the line again, while Regis Le Bris has enough in his ranks to trouble their hosts.

Verdict: Chelsea to win.