Big Game Focus: Chelsea v Arsenal

Chelsea and Arsenal clash in this midweek London Derby, with both clubs attempting to get a better result than in their last match. Can either side grab three precious points? Bet on the game by tapping here.

As a player, Frank Lampard had a poor record against Arsenal. In fact, the 20 defeats he suffered to the Gunners, is a personal and unwanted record. As a manager though, Lampard won the only game his side played against Arsenal, a 2-1 victory at the Emirates only a few weeks ago. They come into this game as odds on favourites.

Arsenal also bought back a former fan favourite to manage them this season. Mikel Arteta has overseen six games since he replaced Unai Emery but the results have not had an instant improvement. Only two wins, one in the Premier League against Manchester United and the other in the cup against Leeds, has left the Gunners in 10th place in the league.

Can Arteta inspire an unlikely win? Or will Lampard do the double over the North London side at the first time of asking?

Betting tips

Chelsea’s recent Premier League form has been inconsistent, with just two wins in their last five. Their defeat at Newcastle on the weekend has put pressure on them to win this match. The good news for the Blues is that they have defeated Arsenal in three of their last five meetings. Only Manchester United and Liverpool have beaten the Gunners more than Chelsea in their history. A Chelsea Win is currently at odds of 1.80.

Goals are usually served on this rather tasty looking menu. Four of the last five meetings had Over 2.5 Goals and the previous match ended 2-1 in favour of the Blues. At odds of 1.60, Over 2.5 Goals could be a good selection booster.

Defensive issues at both clubs means there will be plenty of opportunities for Both Teams to Score. Seven of Arsenal’s last ten away games in the Premier League had goals at both ends. You can get odds of 1.60 for Both Teams to Score.

Team news

Chelsea are without the injured Christian Pulisic and are unlikely to be able to count on the American for another couple of weeks. That means Callum Hudson-Odoi should continue on the wing, despite coming in for criticism from fans after the defeat at Newcastle. Ruben Loftus-Cheek is the only other injury concern for Lampard.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang will sit this match out due to the red card he received at Crystal Palace. Calum Chambers and Kieran Tierney remain the only long-term absentees for Arteta to ponder.

Possible line-ups

Chelsea: Kepa; James, Zouma, Rudger, Azpilicueta; Kante, Jorginho, Mount; Hudson-Odoi, Abraham, Willian.

Arsenal: Leno; Maitland-Niles, Mustafi, Luiz, Saka; Xhaka, Torreira; Pepe, Ozil, Martinelli, Lacazette.