When compared with the other contenders, Chelsea’s current form gives Jose Mourinho’s side an even-keel over the chasing pack of Manchester City, Manchester United and Southampton, who have huffed and puffed in pursuit of the runaway log leaders.
At this stage, it looks highly unlikely that Chelsea will lose four of their remaining games, let alone have that simultaneously come with the at least four wins that closest rivals City need to catch up with them at the top.
That City had failed to win any of their previous four games going into midweek ties – while Chelsea had wrapped three wins and a draw in the same window, shows just how serious Mourinho and his boys are in wrestling the league crown.
The league takes a break this weekend and when it resumes the Blues, at home to Everton two days ago, will be out to further cement their position.
Second-placed City will be home to Newcastle United, third-placed Southampton at home to stuttering Liverpool, while Manchester United – in fourth place and in contention for UEFA Champions League qualification, will be away to Swansea City.
Relegatio- haunted clubs will also be fighting to steer clear of the dreaded chop, with Hull City at home to equally struggling Queens Park Rangers. City lay third-from-bottom before midweek games, just a step and a point above their visitors. Leicester City, who anchor the standings, will seek unlikely redemption away at Everton.
Other fixtures: Feb 21: Sunderland vs West Bromwich Albion; Aston Villa vs Stoke City; Crystal Palace vs Arsenal
Post published in: Football