Premier League: Stoke City v Chelsea match preview

A look ahead to this weekend’s Premier League fixture at the Britannia Stadium

Eden Hazard scored twice for Chelsea but was booked for this celebration (PA)

The Britannia Stadium plays host to Chelsea on Saturday who are looking to keep the pressure on league leaders Arsenal. Stoke, on the other hand, will have one eye over the shoulder as they currently sit four points clear of the relegation zone in 14th place.

Chelsea produced a battling display against a resilient Sunderland in midweek, edging a 4-3 thriller at the Stadium of Light. The sublime display of Eden Hazard was one of the main talking points, as the Belgian winger put in his best display to date in a Chelsea shirt. A late scare almost deprived Chelsea of all three points and Mourinho will be seeking a more disciplined performance against Stoke on Saturday.

Stoke secured a subdued draw at home to Cardiff on Wednesday night but Hughes will be hoping his side show more attacking impetus as home points will be crucial heading into the busy Christmas period.  Stoke have only been defeated once in their past eight home games which epitomises resilience at the Britannia. However, very rarely do they face the embarrassing attacking riches of this Chelsea side. Chelsea will be looking to make it three successive away wins as they travel to the Emirates to face the high-flying Arsenal two weeks later.

KICK-OFF:Saturday, 3.00pm

PAST MEETINGS…

Stoke 0 Chelsea 4 (Walters og 2, Lampard, Hazard), Premier League, January 2013

Chelsea 1 (Cole) Stoke 0, Premier League, September 2012

Chelsea 1 (Drogba) Stoke 0, Premier League, March 2012

STATS…

Stoke haven’t beaten Chelsea at home since the 1974/75 season. (Stoke won 3-0)

Stoke have drawn five out their last seven home games (W1 D5 L1)

Chelsea have scored three or more goals in their last three wins away from home (Sunderland 3-4 Chelsea, West Ham 0-3 Chelsea, Norwich 1-3 Chelsea)

Stoke have failed to score in four of their last six home matches in the Premier League

ODDS…

Stoke to win: 6.50

Chelsea to win: 1.57

Draw: 3.70

TV: Highlights are on BBC One on Match of the Day at 10.20pm