It is looking likely that there will be a closer title race in the Premier League this season. Chelsea are emerging as the favourites for many, due to the strength of their squad and their form since Thomas Tuchel took over. They have taken seven points from a possible nine so far. Despite dropping points against Liverpool, they emerged from Anfield with credit as they played well with ten men. Meanwhile, Aston Villa were seen to have a good transfer window and there were hopes they would push on this season. Their early performances have been mixed and they will need to be better to take anything from Stamford Bridge.
Since the arrival of Thomas Tuchel, Chelsea have been superb. They already have the Champions League in their trophy cabinet and they will be trying to add the Premier League to that. The key to managing that will be consistency. It is important that they maintain pace with the leading park in the early months of the season. The Blues have had a tough start to the campaign, with matches against Tottenham and Manchester City to follow. Tuchel will know that this is a match his team needs to win.
The departure of Jack Grealish has left a massive hole in the Aston Villa team. He was their talisman and they are currently in transition trying to find a way forward without him. Leon Bailey, Emi Buendia and Danny Ings arrived during the summer. They are excellent additions, but it may take a few weeks for us to see the best of Dean Smith’s team. There have been some teething issues in the first three matches. A return of four points is something to be proud of considering the circumstances. This weekend will be a real test of where the side are in comparison to one of the country’s best.
Interesting stats
Chelsea have yet to concede with eleven players on the pitch. Even with ten, Liverpool only managed to find a breakthrough from the penalty spot.
Aston Villa have scored in each of their three Premier League matches this season.
Key men
Mount
The England international looks set to take his game to a new level under Tuchel. Many believed he was being played a lot due to his relationship with Frank Lampard. However, he has continued to be one of the first names on the team sheet under his successor, which underlines his quality. His attacking numbers have been consistent in his two seasons as a Premier League player. The 22-year-old has contributed 13 goals and ten assists during the last two seasons. There is scope for improvement and he will be looking to establish himself as one of the best creative midfielders in the league. Mount will have the creative ability to cause Villa problems. He will pick up pockets of space and dictate the tempo in the final third. Villa’s defence has looked vulnerable and they will struggle to cope with Mount if the midfielder performs.
Ings
It is going to be an interesting season for Danny Ings. He has proven himself to be one of the best strikers operating outside of the top six during the last few seasons. Many were surprised that he went to Aston Villa this summer. It was expected that he would sign for one of the top six and have another try at establishing himself at that level. It is a huge coup for the Midlands club. The early indications are that he will continue to score goals. The forward has two goals and one assist in the opening three matches. It has been tough for him, as he hasn’t had many chances in front of goal. However, he has taken those that have come his way. In the win over Newcastle, he scored a superb overhead kick. This showed that he can produce match-winning moments out of very little. Chelsea will need to be wary of the threat he carries. Villa might not be able to create a lot, but if he gets a chance, he will take it.
Team news
Thiago Silva will be unavailable, as FIFA have banned him for five days. This comes as a result of missing international duty. Reece James will be serving his one-game suspension. Romelu Lukaku and N’Golo Kante are both doubts. Christian Pulisic will be missing.
Emi Buendia and Emi Martinez will be unavailable, as they are currently in quarantine. Bertrand Traore and Leon Bailey are both doubts. Ezri Konsa may be missing after picking up a knee injury, which could mean a start for Axel Tuanzebe. Jacob Ramsey has tested positive for Covid-19 and is unlikely to feature.
Verdict
The Argentine players missing for Aston Villa means this will be very difficult for them to get a result. Chelsea have the strength in depth to deal with their absentees. That includes Romelu Lukaku. Aston Villa don’t have the same strength in depth and that is why a home win is likely. The defensive quality of the home side means a clean sheet is likely too.
Chelsea 2-0 Aston Villa
