Chelsea vs West Ham tips and predictions: Blues to bash Irons as European hopes hang in balance

What can we say about this fixture? It’s almost like Forest Gump and his box of chocolates, as you simply don’t know what you’re going to get.

Both Chelsea and West Ham have desperately lacked consistency in recent weeks, though with other European contenders suffering with the same symptoms, places for continental football remain up for grabs.

Just three weeks ago, Chelsea thrashed Everton 6-0. A week later, they lost 5-0 to Arsenal. A few days later, a 2-2 draw with Aston Villa followed. The Blues then returned to winning ways with a 2-0 success over Tottenham on Thursday.

West Ham have been just as confusing. From a 2-1 win at Wolves, the Irons lost 2-0 at home to Fulham and 5-2 against Crystal Palace. They shook things off last week with an impressive 2-2 draw with Liverpool.

Where is the logic?

The only bit of consistency on offer is Chelsea’s home form. The Blues have actually enjoyed a terrific run at Stamford Bridge, going unbeaten in seven games, winning six of them and scoring 24 goals in the process.

With Mauricio Pochettino’s men clearly loving life in front of goal, we’re backing the Blues to send West Ham packing empty handed.

Chelsea to win the match to nil is the way to go. Keep in mind, the Blues are looking for their third straight clean sheet at home.

 

Team news

Chelsea’s extensive injury list includes Carney Chukwuemeka, Levi Colwill, Axel Disasi, Wesley Fofana, Romeo Lavia, Enzo Fernandez, Lesley Ugochukwu, Malo Gusto, Reece James, Christopher Nkunku, Thiago Silva and Robert Sanchez.

West Ham are in far better shape, with Naid Arguerd expected to be the only absentee.

 

Key stats

- West Ham have gone 15 Premier League games without a clean sheet

- Chelsea are unbeaten in seven games at home across all competitions

- West Ham have conceded the most goals in the league, expect for the three teams in the relegation zone

- Chelsea have scored 24 goals in their last seven home matches

 

Suggested bets

Chelsea to win to nil

Correct score: Chelsea 2-0 West Ham

Cole Palmer to score anytime