The Blues look to continue their winning run against a struggling Palace side.
Alan Pardew is a man under pressure. His substitutions were criticised by Palace fans after their late midweek defeat to Manchester United, a result which left the Eagles just three points above the drop zone.
In such a situation, Chelsea would be last on a list of desired opponents. The Blues recorded their tenth consecutive victory with a 1-0 win at Sunderland in midweek and could pull nine points clear of the chasing pack with a win in the early kick-off.
Chelsea’s Cesc Fabregas celebrates scoring their first goal with Victor Moses and Pedro
The Key Battle – James McArthur vs Cesc Fabregas
Chelsea’s Spanish international has come back into form of late, netting the winner at the Stadium of Light as he continued an impressive run of performances since his reintroduction to the starting XI.
McArthur also found the net in midweek before his withdrawal – which led to the criticism of Pardew – and the Scot will have an important role to play for his side on Saturday lunchtime.
Crystal Palace’s James McArthur and Scott Dann celebrate
Last Meeting:
The Blues eased to a 3-0 victory in January’s clash at Selhurst Park, with goals from Oscar, Willian and Diego Costa sealing the win as Chelsea began their revival after a dreadful first half to the season.
Crystal Palace manager Alan Pardew
Recent league form – most recent last:
Crystal Palace – LLLWDL
Chelsea – WWWWWW
Who’s the ref?
Jonathan Moss will be the man in the middle at Selhurst Park.
The 46-year-old has already overseen two Chelsea victories this season – at Watford and Middlesbrough – as well as Palace’s draw with Everton in September.
Referee Jonathan Moss
What time is kick off?
The match begins at 12.30pm on Saturday.
Where can I watch it?
Sky Sports 1 are showing this one, with coverage starting at 11.30am.
Odds
Crystal Palace – 5/1
Draw – 3/1
Chelsea – 4/7
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