Chelsea vs Aston Villa predictions: Premier League tips and odds

Chelsea will look to record just their second win in the Premier League this season when they play host to Aston Villa at 2pm on Sunday.

If ever there were an example of the Blues’ current plight, this fixture is it. While they have had a week off to rest and prepare, Villa have returned from Poland after playing in Europe.

Chelsea were once nearly guaranteed European football, but they continue to struggle, even with Mauricio Pochettino now in the dugout.

Odds correct at time of publishing and subject to change.

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Blues proving a tough assignment

Pochettino’s side have yet to hit their stride this season and they are 14th after picking up just five points from as many matches.

Chelsea’s form is far from good enough, and the Blues’ inability to convert their chances has cost them dear, while injuries defensively have derailed the Argentinian’s plans.

Reece James, Christopher Nkunku, Wesley Fofana, Romeo Lavia and Carney Chukwuemeka are all still sidelined, while Benoit Badiashile has suffered a setback in his return from injury.

While it will be another few weeks before we can really judge Chelsea’s potential, Villa have made a steady start to the campaign.

However, the Villans have won just one of their previous seven on the road in the Premier League.

Chelsea vs Aston Villa tip 1: Draw @ 13/5 with Sky Bet

European trip likely to take toll on Villa

While Chelsea’s players should be refreshed and raring to go, especially at home in front of their own fans, Villa’s players may feel the pace on Sunday.

Villans boss Unai Emery made five changes for the 3-2 defeat at Legia Warsaw, but he had to lean on some of his first-team players for a second-half response.

Sadly for Villa that did not materialise – and their first European away trip of the campaign could easily have knocked the stuffing out of them.

In recent weeks, the West Midlanders’ games have been lively. None of their past three in all competitions has brought less than three goals, but Sunday’s game could be a low-scoring affair.

Chelsea’s previous two matches have had under 2.5 goals, while the past three meetings between the pair have also delivered fewer than three goals.

Chelsea vs Aston Villa tip 2: Under 2.5 goals @ 11/10 with Sky Bet

Fernandez hoping to inspire Chelsea

While goals have been a problem for the Blues, creating chances has not. Nicolas Jackson has already registered 18 shots this season, although his conversion rate could do with some work.

The former Villarreal man keeps getting in some good areas and he will have no problem testing Emiliano Martinez in the Villa goal.

Moussa Diaby will start after being rested in midweek for Villa and he should be able to force Robert Sanchez into a save or two. He has already had 11 shots in five games.

If Chelsea are to score, midfielder Fernandez will be at the heart of it. The former Benfica man has created more chances than any other Blues player this season, setting up 11 opportunities for his teammates.

There is every chance this game could also be feisty, so over 40+ booking points appeals.

Chelsea have picked up 16 yellow cards this season – only Newcastle United and Tottenham have acquired more – while Villa are not too far behind with 13.

Chelsea vs Aston Villa tip 3: Moussa Diaby 1+ shots on target, Nicolas Jackson 1+ shot on target, Enzo Fernandez 1+ assist, 40+ booking points @ 9/1 with Sky Bet

Chelsea vs Aston Villa odds

Odds are correct at the time of publication and are subject to change.