Chelsea Gear Up for London Derby Against Injury-Hit Tottenham

Chelsea Gear Up for London Derby Against Injury-Hit Tottenham

Chelsea are set to face Tottenham Hotspur in a much-anticipated Premier League clash this Sunday. The Blues head to North London aiming to extend their strong form and maintain their position in second place in the league.

A Fixture Full of Drama

Last season’s corresponding fixture was a standout, with Nicolas Jackson’s hat-trick in a thrilling game that saw Chelsea emerge victorious. The Blues also triumphed in their late-season encounter at Stamford Bridge, despite fielding a depleted squad.

This time, Enzo Maresca faces Ange Postecoglou for the first time in a managerial duel. Tottenham’s head coach, however, struck a cautious tone regarding his team’s chances, admitting their challenges might persist into the match.

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Spurs’ Injury Woes

Tottenham are grappling with an extensive injury list, missing key players across the pitch:

• Cristian Romero (ankle/foot)
• Micky van de Ven (thigh)
• Ben Davies (hamstring)
• Rodrigo Bentancur (suspended)
• Guglielmo Vicario (ankle/foot)
• Richarlison (thigh)

Ange Postecoglou is asked, "are you going to sign a defender in January?"

"That's not going to help us against Chelsea on Sunday." https://t.co/vJmN8tMCna

— Nizaar Kinsella (@NizaarKinsella) December 5, 2024

These absences will undoubtedly impact Spurs’ ability to field a competitive lineup, with their defensive frailty under scrutiny after recent results.

Ange Postecoglou was asked about potentially signing a defender in January:

🗣️ “Mate, that ain’t going to help us against Chelsea on Sunday. That's all I'm thinking about at the moment.”

~ @HaytersTV pic.twitter.com/ecGbHseTI5

— Vince™ (@Blue_Footy) December 6, 2024

Also, read: Chelsea Draw Flamengo, Club Leon, and ES Tunis in 2025 Club World Cup Group Stage

Chelsea’s Injury Status

Chelsea enter the derby with a relatively clean bill of health. Only Reece James and Wesley Fofana remain unavailable, leaving Maresca’s squad in a strong position to capitalize on Tottenham’s struggles.

Stakes in the Clash

Chelsea aim to close the gap on league leaders Liverpool while solidifying their impressive start to the campaign. With Tottenham struggling for form and fitness, the Blues are favorites to secure a crucial three points in what promises to be another memorable London derby.

Chelsea Gear Up for London Derby Against Injury-Hit Tottenham