Chelsea vs Cardiff Preview: Team News, Likely Line-Ups, Key Man & Predicted Score

Chelsea entertain Cardiff City at Stamford Bridge on Saturday afternoon looking to put some pressure on the early pace-setters.

The Blues currently sit third in the table, just two points off leaders Arsenal, after a 3-1 win over Norwich before the international break and they will hope to put some pressure on the Gunners with another three points this weekend.

Jose Mourinho’s men boast a 100% record at the Bridge this season and head into the game in excellent form having won four and drawn the other of their last five games in all competitions.

Cardiff arrive in west London after a difficult week off the pitch with boss Malky Mackay reportedly ready to quit the club after former head of recruitment Iain Moody was sacked by owner Vincent Tan.

Mackay appears to have settled his differences with the club though and will look to get back to on-field matters this weekend with his side currently sitting 14th in the table – just one point off the relegation zone.

Team News

Chelsea will be without defender Ashley Cole after he was ruled out with a rib injury that kept him out of England recent World Cup qualifying double-header. Jose Mourinho has confirmed Ryan Bertrand will deputise at left-back.

Fernando Torres has been passed fit to play after recovering from a knee injury that he picked up against Steaua Bucharest earlier this month. However, the Spaniard may have to make do with a place on the bench with Demba Ba expected to retain his place after an excellent showing against the Canaries last time out.

Andre Schurrle will miss the game with a knock picked up playing for Germany in midweek but Eden Hazard is likely to be recalled in his place.

Cardiff have reported no fresh injury worries ahead of the game. Mackay’s major absentee is striker Andreas Cornelius who has been ruled out for several weeks with an ankle injury.

Likely Line-Ups

Key Man

Juan Mata: The Spanish maestro has regained his first team place after some fine displays and was on target for Spain in midweek. Mata seems to have found his confidence again so we think he’ll be the one to watch again this weekend.

Predicted Score

Chelsea 3-0 Cardiff: We can see the Blues maintaining their 100% record at the Bridge with a comfortable win over Cardiff.