Chelsea vs Tottenham Preview: How to Watch on TV, Live Stream, Kick Off Time & Team News
By Ross Jackson
Chelsea host London rivals Tottenham on Sunday in what could prove to be a crucial clash at the top end of the Premier League table, with both sides looking well placed to embark on a solid title tilt.
Frank Lampard's men did the double over the Lilywhites last campaign, though it was Spurs who emerged victorious via a penalty shootout when the sides met in the Carabao Cup earlier this season.
Jose Mourinho's side look to be a totally different proposition this year, adding a consistency which was sorely lacking in his first half-season at the club, and despite the table still being in its relative infancy, Spurs are being tipped by many to be strong challengers for the Premier League crown.
It may only be matchday ten, but this one is already shaping up to be a huge top-of-the-table clash. Here's all the details ahead of Sunday's derby.
Where to Watch
When Is Kick Off? Sunday 29 November
What Time Is Kick Off? 16:30 (BST)
Where Is it Played? Stamford Bridge
TV Channel/Live Stream? Sky Sports Main Event (UK), NBCSN (USA)
Referee? Paul Tierney
Team News
Lampard will be able to call upon the services of Kai Havertz this weekend after the German international was forced to sit out Chelsea's last three fixtures having tested positive for coronavirus.
There's also good news regarding Christian Pulisic. The winger was a late withdrawal from the Chelsea squad prior to their 3-0 win over Burnley in late October, though Lampard has confirmed the American is back in contention but a place in the starting XI seems unlikely.
Spurs have two days fewer to prepare for the clash than Chelsea following their Europa League commitments on Thursday, and their injury list reflects that.
Mourinho will be without Toby Alderweireld with the Belgian absent due to a groin injury, while Erik Lamela is also expected to play no part.
Joe Rodon could be handed his first Premier League start after Davinson Sanchez played the full 90 minutes in midweek, while Matt Doherty could be set to return following his period of self-isolation due to a positive coronavirus test.
Predicted Lineups
Chelsea: Mendy; James, Zouma, Silva, Chilwell; Havertz, Kante, Mount; Ziyech, Abraham, Werner
Tottenham: Lloris: Doherty, Rodon, Dier, Reguilon; Hojbjerg, Sissoko, Ndombele; Bergwijn, Kane, Son
Recent Form
Both these teams have been in scintillating form of late. Neither has a blemish on their last five results, with Spurs unbeaten since their opening day defeat to Everton.
Lampard has clearly been working hard as he looks to address Chelsea's fragile back line and he's beginning to reap the rewards. Since shipping three at home to Southampton - a game which saw them criminally throw away two points late on - the Blues have conceded just two goals in their following eight games in all competitions.
However, their mean defence will be put to the ultimate test this weekend, with Harry Kane and Heung-min Son in superb goalscoring form this season.
Here's how each team has fared in their previous five games.
Chelsea
Rennes 1-2 Chelsea (24/11)
Newcastle 0-2 Chelsea (21/11)
Chelsea 4-1 Sheffield United (7/11)
Chelsea 3-0 Rennes (4/11)
Burnley 0-3 Chelsea (31/10)
Tottenham
Tottenham 4-0 Ludogorets (26/11)
Tottenham 2-0 Manchester City (21/11)
West Bromwich Albion 0-1 Tottenham (8/11)
Ludogorets 1-3 Tottenham (5/11)
Tottenham 2-1 Brighton (1/11)
Prediction
This one really is a flip of a coin. Chelsea's newfound defensive solidity against the mouth-watering Spurs front line promises to be an enthralling battle.
Injuries and preparation time between games could be key here, but if anyone is capable of going to Stamford Bridge and grinding out a result, it's Mourinho.
Prediction: Chelsea 1-1 Tottenham