Chelsea return to action this weekend when they welcome a Manchester United side full of confidence following their mid-week victory over Tottenham Hotspur. Graham Potter's side are currently one point ahead of United after their goalless draw with Brentford on Wednesday.
The Blues remain undefeated under Potter since his arrival in September, winning five games. However, similar problems repeated themselves in the week as they lacked the clinical touch to break down a stubborn Brentford defence.
Saturday provides a tough test against Erik ten Hag's men, who themselves are enjoying a five-game unbeaten run. Since the 6-3 Manchester derby defeat, the Red Devils have defeated Omonia, Everton and Spurs to drag themselves into the top four race.
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Ahead of the battle at Stamford Bridge, pundits have been making their predictions on who they believe will be victorious on Saturday evening. Former Premier League stars Chris Sutton and Mark Lawrenson have both predicted a narrow victory for Potter's men.
Speaking to BBC Sport, Sutton has predicted a 1-0 victory for Chelsea but has pointed out the lack of goals within Potter's side. He said: It's a good thing for Manchester United that 'Old Sulky Pants', Cristiano Ronaldo, will not be involved after throwing his toys out of the pram against Spurs. Fair play to Erik ten Hag for banishing him, because you cannot have a player behaving like that.
"But I'm still really not sure what to expect from United. They were poor against Newcastle then excellent against Tottenham on Wednesday - what idiot would have predicted a Spurs win at Old Trafford?
"Chelsea's draw against Brentford on the same night was probably a bit of a disappointment given their other results under Graham Potter, who has made a good start as manager and is unbeaten in his seven games in charge.
"Their past four meetings with Chelsea have all ended in draws but this time I think there will be a winner, and I'm going with Potter to get it.
"It will be close and the Blues are not exactly free scoring at the moment, but even I scored for them against United - it was my only league goal for Chelsea too - and, with Kepa Arrizabalaga in such good form, one goal might be enough."
Sutton's prediction: 1-0
Lawrenson has agreed with Sutton and has backed Potter to continue his fine start in the capital. He told Paddy Power: "United won comfortably against Spurs and Chelsea drew at Brentford.
"I think Graham Potter’s slowly starting to get his feet under the table, he’s slowly learning what his best team is, he’s given everybody a go. It’s a very happy camp so I’ll go for a home win. The big question is will Cristiano Ronaldo make the bus!"
Lawrenson's prediction: 2-1
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