Chelsea vs Everton preview: Blues need to stop dropping points

A look ahead to the Premier League fixture at Stamford Bridge

Chelsea striker Diego Costa engages with Boaz Myhill after the final whistle (Getty Images)

It’s a big game for...

Pedro: The former Barcelona winger at times has struggled to adapt to the Premier League and this was evident at times during the 2-2 draw against West Brom at Stamford Bridge. The Spaniard gave the ball away cheaply in his own half which led to the West Brom equaliser.

Best stat...

No side has lost more points from leading positions this season than Chelsea (12, which is level with AFC Bournemouth and Newcastle United). They only dropped 15 throughout the 2014/15 season.

Remember when...

Former Chelsea striker Didier Drogba scored this wonder-goal against The Toffees in 2007 at Goodison Park that gave Jose Mourinho’s side all 3 points in a 5 goal thriller.

Player to watch...

Tim Howard: The American shot stopper who had been left out of the Everton side for the two cup games against Manchester City and Dagenham and Redbridge proved his worth in the league fixture against Manchester City with a number of fine saves to keep his side in the game at 0-0. This display earned his side what could be a valuable point in their pursuit for European football next season. Howard will be looking to cement his position as first choice goalkeeper with the Merseyside based club.

Past three-meetings…

Everton 3 (Naismith 3) Chelsea 1 (Matic), Premier League, September 2015

Chelsea 1 (Willian) Everton 0, Premier League, February 2015

Everton 3 (Mirallas, Naismith, Eto’o) Chelsea 6 (Costa 2, Ivanovic, Matic, Ramires, Coleman OG), Premier League, August 2014

Form guide…

Chelsea: LWDDWD

Everton: DLWLDD

Vital information…

KICK-OFF TIME: 3pm

TV: Highlights on BBC 1 Match of the Day 10:25pm