Leading scorer Didier Drogba is expected to be recalled to the starting line-up as Chelsea bid to restore their four-point lead at the top of the table at out-of-form Hull. Ivory Coast teammate Salomon Kalou is also expected to feature for the Blues as they seek a seventh successive win while Egyptian star Amr Zaki could start his first game for the Tigers after coming on as a substitute at the weekend.
Quick Check
Hull City
- Striker Amr Zaki is hoping for his full debut after come on as a substitute at the weekend.
- The Tigers are without a win in their last nine league games.
- Midfielder Jimmy Bullard is still a week away from returning from a knee injury.
- Seyi Olofinjana and Daniel Cousin are expected to still be missing after the African Cup of Nations.
- Ian Ashbee is sidelined by a long-term knee problem.
- Hull have not beaten Chelsea since 1988. (seven games)
Chelsea
- Strikers Didier Drogba and Salomon Kalou are set for recalls after returning from the African Cup of Nations.
- England star Frank Lampard has scored four goals in his last three league appearances.
- Striker Nicolas Anelka has scored six goals in his last six games.
- Chelsea have scored 21 goals in their last six matches and won all of them.
- The Blues have won five of the last six meetings between the two teams.
- Carlo Ancelotti’s team beat Hull 2-1 in August thanks to two goals from Didier Drogba.
- Chelsea have won all 19 games in which midfielder Florent Malouda has scored.
- Left back Ashley Cole is doubtful with an ankle problem.
- Jon-Obi Mikel is still away on international duty at the African Cup of Nations.
- Midfielder Michael Essien will be out for at least three more weeks with a knee problem.
- Ancelotti’s side has lost three matches away from home this season.
- Full back Jose Bosingwa is out until the end of the month with a knee injury.
Expert Advice
Six straight wins is an indication of how well Chelsea are playing at the moment and the return of Drogba and Kalou from the African Cup of Nations will only strengthen their bid for a first Premier League title in four years. The Blues have had their problems on the road this season and needed a late goal to keep their winning run going at Burnley on Saturday but they look to have too many options going forward to beat Hull. While Amr Zaki’s presence up front will improve their attack, Phil Brown’s side remain firmly embroiled in a relegation fight after nine games without a win and they are short of confidence, especially in defence. The Tigers could score but the visitors look too strong and Betsson’s odds of 3.8 for an away win by one goal appears a value bet.
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Should be an easy game for Chelsea, I reckon it’s gonna be 4-0 Chelsea