West Ham vs. Chelsea Preview

London derby time!

For game week 22 Chelsea take a short trip in London as they play 17th placed West Ham. West Ham were struggling prior to the lockdown and haven’t seen a change in fortune post the lockdown as they have lost to Wolves and Spurs 2-0 in both games. Moyes is struggling and right now the Hammers are above the relegation zone on goal difference. Chelsea on the other hand go into this game having beaten City last weekend and Leicester during the weekend in the FA Cup. There seems to be a brilliant vibe amongst the squad right now as a win could take us into 3rd. The reverse fixture was a 0-1 loss to West Ham so there should be plenty of incentive for the Chelsea players to win this game. 

During the press conference Lampard was asked about playing West Ham and the London rivalry etc, pretty standard questions. Lampard was also asked about Declan Rice and Chelsea’s apparent interest in him. Lampard stated that Rice was a good player but his answer would be pretty standard for transfer rumours until the end of the season which is no comment. Lampard did rule out Chelsea going in for Angel Gomes. Lamaprd was also asked about Werner and Ziyech and what plans were in place for them given that they become Chelsea players on the 1st. Lampard said that he was working on a training program for them and would decide whether they work with the squad or individually. 

Chelsea Team Preview

There are question marks over the availability of Christensen and Pulisic with the latter having felt tightness in his calf during the Leicester game. Lampard said that he would make a judgement on Wednesday. Hopefully they are fit to play because both have been impressive. The rest are fit and so Kepa should return to goal with Azpilicueta, and Alonso as the full backs. If Christensen is fit then I would like to see him and Zouma start but otherwise Rudiger should be in for the Dane. Kante should continue in the CDM role while Mount and Kovacic should start in midfield. Pedro and Pulisic should be the wingers with Giroud up front. If Pulisic is injured expect RLC to start on the wing. CHO should be on the bench.

West Ham Team Preview

Haller, Ogbonna and Masuaku will not be available for West Ham as they recover from injuries while the rest should be available. West Ham might not be in the best of form but they still have players with plenty of threat. Fornals, Bowen, Antonio, Andersen and Lanzini are all a threat with Jack Wilshere also around. Cresswell can also be dangerous with Rice and Diop looking solid. 

Starting XI Prediction

The 1st of July is a big day for Chelsea with Werner and Ziyech officially becoming Chelsea players, and our new partnership with sponsors 3 also starting. There should also be a new home kit on show for Chelsea with West Ham also wearing theirs so it’s a big evening. Only fitting for Chelsea to celebrate so many positives with another win. COME ON YOU BLUES!!!