Paul Merson surprised that Chelsea forward Raheem Sterling didn't make Gareth Southgate's English squad. (Photo by Bryn Lennon/Getty Images)
Speaking on Sky Sports (h/t Metro), former Arsenal playmaker Paul Merson predicted that Chelsea will finish above their London rivals Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League this season.
After the Blues’ defeat against Brighton and Hove Albion last weekend, they are now seventh in the table, three points behind fourth-placed Newcastle United and five points behind third-placed Spurs.
Although Graham Potter’s men have been in decent form since the change in manager, it is two draws and a defeat for them in the last three league games. However, Tottenham have not set the world alight as well performance-wise despite being third in the table.
Talking about where teams will finish in the league, here’s Merson (h/t Metro):
“I just don’t think Spurs get away with it, I don’t think they get away with keep going to the well like they have done.
“I just don’t see how they’ll finish third. Chelsea will finish above Tottenham.”
Chelsea now welcomes Arsenal to Stamford Bridge today in a crunch encounter. The Gunners began the weekend top of the table, only to be usurped by Manchester City after their win over Fulham on Saturday.
The gap between the Blues and their London rivals is 10 points. Potter’s men would be hoping to put up a good show in front of their home fans and win the game today. It would not only close the gap between them and Arsenal but also stop the latter from going back to the top.
It is also the last home game for Chelsea before the World Cup break. They played City at the Etihad Stadium in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday before facing Newcastle United next Saturday.
With regards to the quality of the squad and the players who are expected to return from injuries after the World Cup, the Blues could have enough to finish in the top four.
The best way to displace teams above you in the table is by beating them and then remaining consistent in other games. Chelsea can start doing the former with a win over Arsenal today.
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