Pundit says Chelsea will beat Crystal Palace solely because Eagles are missing 2 key stars
Chris Sutton and his prediction for the upcoming Chelsea vs. Crystal Palace clash underscores the significance of key absences for the Eagles, particularly Michael Olise and Eberechi Eze, whose injury issues have raised concerns about Palace’s ability to compete against a resurgent Chelsea side.
Sutton’s analysis highlights the impact of Olise and Eze on Palace’s attacking prowess, with the duo contributing a combined total of seventeen goals and assists so far this season. Their absence leaves a significant void in Palace’s midfield and attacking setup, potentially limiting their ability to create scoring opportunities and pose a threat to Chelsea’s defence. Olise has nine goal contributions this season, while Eze has eight to boot. Here is what Sutton noted in his BBC column predicting a 1-0 result for the Blues:
“Well, Chelsea are back on form after their FA Cup win over Villa – so this is a nailed-on Crystal Palace win.”
“Being serious, though, I am worried about Palace, especially with Michael Olise and Eberechi Eze’s ongoing injury issues, and I am making this prediction on the basis they will both be missing.”
“Although Chelsea remain a very odd side and we don’t know what kind of performance we will get from them, I can see them keeping a clean sheet and they have got enough firepower to nick a goal from somewhere.”
Moreover, Sutton’s observation about Chelsea’s recent resurgence following their FA Cup victory over Aston Villa suggests that the Blues are back on track and poised to continue their winning momentum.
Despite their inconsistent form in the past, Chelsea’s defensive solidity and attacking firepower make them formidable opponents, especially against a Palace side depleted by key injuries.
Sutton’s prediction of a narrow 1-0 victory for Chelsea reflects his belief in the Blues’ defensive capabilities and their ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities, even against a determined Palace side. While Chelsea’s performances have been unpredictable at times, Sutton’s assessment suggests that the absence of key players for Palace could tilt the balance in favour of the Blues.
A win against the Eagles this weekend will take us to ninth place assuming Newcastle United draw or lose to Nottingham Forest in their upcoming game. While it is obviously tough to predict an outcome, we can only hope for the Blues to carry their momentum forward after the top-class performance against Aston Villa.
As both teams prepare to face off, Sutton’s prediction provides valuable context for understanding the dynamics at play. Chelsea will aim to capitalize on Palace’s vulnerabilities and secure a crucial victory to maintain their momentum in the Premier League.
Meanwhile, Palace will need to adapt their approach and find alternative sources of creativity in the absence of their key playmakers.
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