Chelsea vs Sunderland preview, prediction, team news and head-to-head

The Blues have won four matches in a row across all competitions and are in fine form heading into this clash, though they will expect a fierce battle against the Black Cats, who are tied on points with them.

Chelsea humbled Dutch side Ajax 5-1 in the Champions League on Wednesday night, exploiting their early one-man advantage to the fullest.

The Blues have recorded four successive wins, two of which have come in the Premier League, with their attackers shining bright amidst their injury crisis in defense.

Meanwhile, Sunderland are showing grit and spirit upon their return to the top flight, recording their best start in the league since 1999-2000.

The Black Cats secured a 2-0 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers last time out, recovering from a loss by the same scorline against Manchester United.

However, much of their success have come on home soil, with Régis Le Bris’ men winning just won just one of their last seven away league outings.

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After winning four of the first six Premier League meetings (2L), Sunderland have won just three of the last 26 meetings against Chelsea in the league (2D, 21L). 

Chelsea remain with a long list of absentees that includes Cole Palmer (groin), Levi Colwill (ACL), and Benoit Badiashile (muscle).

Dario Essugo (thigh), Liam Delap (hamstring), and Mykhaylo Mudryk (doping ban) are also on the list, while Malo Gusto is suspended after his red card last week.

Sunderland have five players out, with summer signing Habib Diarra sidelined until December, while Leo Hjelde has an Achilles issue.

Romaine Mundle (thigh) and left-back Dennis Cirkin (wrist), while Aji Alese is out with an shoulder issue.

Chelsea: Sanchez; James, Tosin, Chalobah, Cucurella; Caicedo, Fernandez; Estevao, Joao Pedro, Neto; Guiu

Sunderland: Roefs; Mukiele, Ballard, Alderete, Hume; Xhaka, Sadiki; Talbi, Rigg, Le Fee; Isidor

This a winnable game for Chelsea, and they are enjoying a brilliant run. However, their performances have not been convincing, as they have lived on the edge in crucial times in these games, though they have been left unhurt.

Sunderland are capable of defending their box quite well, and they have some grit about them that can trouble a depleted Chelsea backline.

Correct score prediction: Chelsea 2-2 Sunderland

You can place your bets on this game via LiveScore Bet.

Betting tips:

• Bet on Over 2.5

• Second half over 0.5 goals

• Over 2.5 cards