“Crazy pace, hurting lines” – Paul Merson gives shocking prediction for Chelsea vs Aston Villa clash
Paul Merson has given his score prediction ahead of Chelsea’s home fixture against Aston Villa this weekend.
The Blues are back in action this Sunday afternoon at Stamford Bridge, where they’ll be looking to improve upon recent results.
Mauricio Pochettino’s side have collected just five points from their opening five Premier League games, so the pressure is high going into Sunday’s match.
As for Villa, they play Legia Warsaw on Thursday evening in the UEFA Europa Conference League before shifting attention back towards domestic duties.
Unai Emery’s side sit on nine points from their opening five Premier League matches
Merson suggests Chelsea have the speed in attack to exploit Villa’s high line, but he’s tipping a score draw.
Merson told Sportskeeda: “Chelsea have been nowhere close to their best this season and are coming on the back of another disappointing draw against Bournemouth. Still, from box to box, they actually carved the Cherries open and played well between the lines. Their performance wasn’t as bad as everyone made it out to be – they looked good on the night but just didn’t manage to put the ball into the back of the net.
“Chelsea have enough pace up front and could hurt Villa’s high line, but I think this game will end all square.
“Prediction: Chelsea 1-1 Aston Villa.”
Villa will have fond memories of their recent trip to Stamford Bridge, winning 2-0 back in April when the teams met in the league last season.
Hopefully, the Blue can start being far more clinical in front of goal and making the most of their high possession in games.