“A tough game” “Breaking down those bricks will be difficult” – Eden Hazard makes BOLD predication on Everton vs Chelsea clash
Former Blue Eden Hazard has given his prediction for Sunday’s match between Chelsea and Everton at Goodison Park.
The Blues are now in second place in the league, two points behind champions Liverpool and four ahead of third-place Arsenal. They have won their previous six league games in a row.
Chelsea would briefly lead the league with a victory over the Toffees, and Liverpool would next play Tottenham.
Romeo Lavia is probably out for the Blues, and Benoit Badiashile and Wesley Fofana are still out.
On the plus side, though, Reece James is back on the grass participating in some training in preparation for his comeback in the new year.
Having made a raft of changes for the 5-1 win against Shamrock Rovers in the Conference League on Thursday night Maresca is set to revert to what is his strongest line-up.
With Marc Cucurella suspended after being sent off against Brentford Renato Veiga will likely take his place, and the rest of the team pretty much picks itself with the players available.
The Blues don’t have a good recent record at Goodison Park and despite Everton having only won three games this season they have shown with their draw at The Emirates they can make it tough.
However, Eden Hazard has stated he can’t look beyond a Chelsea win because of how much confidence the Blues are playing with.
“Sean Dyche’s Everton side are not tearing up any trees but they showed in the draw at Arsenal how resolute they are, they are awkward and difficult to break down,” Eden Hazard said.
“Even so, you can’t back against Chelsea right now, with the confidence they are playing with and the winning run they are on.”
“Sutton’s prediction: 1-2.”
After the trip to Goodison Park on Sunday Chelsea host Fulham on Boxing Day before their final game of the year at Portman Road against Ipswich.