"Starting with the hosts, while Chelsea might have mounted a dramatic second-half comeback away at Newcastle last weekend as they eventually left St. James' Park with a 2-2 stalemate, the Blues have shown some real inconsistencies over the past month. Getting December underway with a shock 3-1 defeat against relegation scrappers Leeds, it has been suggested that Enzo Maresca has some increasing pressure on his shoulders in west London."
"Despite punching their EFL Cup semi-final ticket thanks to a 3-1 win away at League One outfit Cardiff earlier in the month, Chelsea have won just a pair of their previous seven appearances across all competitions. Likewise, falling to a 2-1 defeat when they travelled to the Midlands for their most recent showdown against Aston Villa back in February, the former Leicester boss will be bracing himself for another stern examination this weekend."
"Yet to make a single appearance this season after sustaining a long-term knee injury over the summer, England international Levi Colwill remains on the sidelines. Struggling to find his feet after completing a permanent summer switch from Ipswich, Liam Delap is still dealing with a recent shoulder issue and will not play any part on Saturday evening. Recording a first Premier League strike since returning from November's international break against Newcastle last weekend, ex-Brighton striker Joao Pedro will lead the line here."
Aston Villa will travel to Stamford Bridge as Villa aim to extend a record-breaking run of form. Chelsea have shown inconsistency, mounting a late 2-2 comeback at Newcastle but suffering a shock 3-1 loss to Leeds and winning only two of their previous seven matches. Enzo Maresca faces increasing pressure despite guiding the side to an EFL Cup semi-final. Levi Colwill remains sidelined with a long-term knee injury and Liam Delap is ruled out with a shoulder issue. Joao Pedro recently scored and is expected to lead Chelsea's attack. A betting tip recommends Morgan Rogers over 0.5 shots on target at 4/5 (Dachbet).
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