Premier League holders Chelsea host Everton at Stamford Bridge on Sunday afternoon. The Blues suffered a surprise 3-2 defeat at the hands of Burnley in the opening day of the campaign, but they bounced back brilliantly with an impressive 2-1 victory over London rivals Tottenham Hotspur. On the other hand, Everton have enjoyed a much better run with a 1-0 victory at Stoke City followed by a 1-1 draw versus Manchester City which will have pleased Ronald Koeman. Despite this, goals have been an issue for the Toffees with Wayne Rooney being the sole scorer in both goals. Everton
Everton have failed to clinch a win in their previous 22 attempts at Stamford Bridge with their last victory dating back to November 1994 where they secured a 1-0 triumph. Despite this, Koeman will come with a sense of optimism with his side much different from the one which got hammered 5-0 last term.
Players to watch for:
Chelsea – Alvaro Morata: The Spain international had an impressive cameo on his home debut against Burnley where he scored a goal coming on as a substitute. However, the 24-year-old failed to show up in his first start against Spurs after he missed a glorious opportunity in the early part of the game. Michy Batshuayi also did himself no favours with an own goal at Wembley, and Morata can be tipped to start at Stamford Bridge. Morata will try to get behind the defenders as always with his impressive movement, and the Toffees backline could have a potentially tough trip to west London.
Everton – Gylfi Sigurdsson: Wayne Rooney has been the standout performer for Everton in recent weeks but Sigurdsson stole the show last night with his stunning 57-yard effort against Hajduk Split in the Europa League. The Toffees’ club-record signing has adjusted brilliantly in the space of just over a week, and he looks set to earn his Premier League start versus the Blues. Sigurdsson is well known for his dead ball abilities, and Chelsea will have to avoid any unnecessary fouls towards their defensive third.
Prediction:
Everton should clinch another 1-1 draw. Jordan Pickford to bag the man-of-the-match.
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