predictions-and-tips
West Brom v Chelsea Predictions, Betting Tips & Previews
May 08, 2017
Friday May 12 – The Hawthorns – Premier League
West Brom host Chelsea on Friday night, with Antonio Conte’s side able to secure the Premier League title if they pick up all three points.
Past Meetings
Recent history favours Chelsea in this fixture, with the Blues beating the Baggies three times in their last five meetings in the Premier League.
West Brom’s last victory over the Londoners came via a 3-0 win back in May 2015.
Team News
Tony Pulis has a selection headache ahead of the visit of the champions-elect, with midfielder Matty Phillips and forward Hal Robson-Kanu both struggling with injury.
Both players have hamstring problems, that have kept them out of first team action in recent weeks, and neither are likely to be risked in this game.
Northern Ireland international Jonny Evans is out with a foot injury, and he is likely to be replaced by Allan Nyom.
Chelsea will give late fitness tests to three first team players ahead of their trip to the West Midlands.
PFA Player of the Year N’Golo Kante is struggling with a thigh injury, David Luiz has a groin issue and goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has an ankle problem.
All three should be passed fit to play, but any absences should be covered by Cesc Fabregas, Nathan Ake and Asmir Begovic.
West Brom v Chelsea Preview and Predictions
West Brom are without a win in their last six games and look desperately short of confidence following convincing defeats to Liverpool and Leicester City.
Pulis’ side are safe from relegation and have little more than pride to play for in this clash. They did show some signs of life in last weekend’s draw at Burnley, scoring twice to haul themselves back into the game. However they were unable to take more than a point away from it, and the two goals were their first in their dire winless run.
Conte will want to secure the League title, and his first trophy in England on Sunday, to avoid any late season drama, particularly as Tottenham could benefit from any slip up.
He should get his wish here, and an away win is priced at 4/11.
Recommended Bets
Chelsea to win 3-1 at 11/1
Chelsea will be in ruthless mood ahead of this game, wanting to secure the title that they have looked odds on to win for months.
Diego Costa to score anytime at 5/6
Spanish international Costa has led the line for Chelsea excellently all season, notching up 20 goals in all competitions. His physicality and poachers instinct will cause real problems for the home side.