The Blues can continue their march to the title with a win over the Hammers on Monday night.
West Ham v Chelsea – Monday 20:00, Sky Sports 1
West Ham came from behind against Watford to secure their second consecutive draw, leaving them with just one defeat in their last six, a 4-0 drubbing at the hands of Man City. They have however kept just one clean sheet in nine, and have been particularly leaky at the back when facing top-six sides, losing six of eight winless matches this season while conceding 22 goals.
Chelsea continued their march to the title with a 3-1 victory over an improving Swansea side, though they had to work hard for the points as they survived a penalty scare at 1-1 and only regained the lead after 72 minutes. It does mean that they’ve won 17 of their last 20 outings and only suffered the one defeat, and whilst they’ve only tasted victory once in their last four away, they have had to travel to Spurs, Liverpool and a difficult trip to home specialists Burnley.
Five of the Hammers’ six defeats to the top-six this season have been by more than two goals, including all three to take place at the London Stadium, where the better sides seem to enjoy the extra space. The Blues have kept 13 clean sheets this term and only conceded more than a single goal twice in their last 20, so coupled with West Ham’s absent defence against the top teams, we’re backing Chelsea to cover the -1 handicap.
