Chelsea vs Aston Villa - English Premier League

Chelsea vs Aston Villa
English Premier League, Round 19
Date : 31.December 2011 - 16:00 CET
Stadium : Stamford Bridge - London

On Saturday, 31st December at 16:00 (CET), Chelsea FC will host Aston Villa at Stamford Bridge for Round 19 of the English Premier League. The Blues need a solid result to stamp their hold on fourth place ahead of Arsenal and Liverpool who are just points behind.

Chelsea are coming off of three consecutive Premier League draws in games that they arguably should have won. Andre Villas-Boas will be happy his side have not lost since early November, but to challenge for the top positions he needs to pick up maximum points at Stamford Bridge against teams the likes of Aston Villa. Fernando Torres was given a starting chance last time out against Fulham, but the Spanish striker has extended his goal scoring drought to nine matches. Drogba and Sturridge will likely be given the nod this weekend.

Alex McLeish's Villains are in the midst of a poor streak that has seen them lose four of the last seven matches. Their last game away to Stoke City was better (0-0), but Aston Villa need to improve up front where they've been held goalless in five of the last seven. McLeish lost Emile Heskey last week to an Achilles' injury but has received a boost in hearing Darren Bent could make a return against Chelsea. Shay Given remains out and Brad Guzan will continue to deputize in goal.

HEAD to HEAD
Last Meeting : 02.01.2011, Chelsea 3-3 Aston Villa
Wins Chelsea : 50
Wins Aston Villa : 49
Draws : 32

RECENT PERFORMANCE
Chelsea - D/D/D/W/W
Aston Villa - D/L/L/W/L

POSSIBLE LINE-UP
Chelsea : Cech - Cole, Terry, Bosingwa, David Luiz, Lampard, Meireles, Romeu, Mata, Sturridge, Drogba.
Aston Villa : Guzan - Collins, Dunne, Warnock, Cuellar, Clark, Petrov, N'Zogbia, Albrighton, Bent, Agbonlahor.

BETTING TIP / PREDICTION
The ability for Aston Villa to have any chance against Chelsea hinges on the health of Darren Bent. If the striker is unavailable there should be just one obvious conclusion, but if he is fit Villains could keep it tight. Still, Chelsea remain heavy favourites and should get the right result either way.
Tip : Chelsea to Win (1x2)