Kick-off: 16.00
(live @ Sky Sport 1/Calcio 1)
Stamford Bridge


Chelsea FC
(4th)
v
Aston Villa
(12th)



Despite beating Manchester City just a few weeks ago, Chelsea are 11 points off the top of the table and their chances of a title bid hang by a thread - victory at home to Aston Villa is a must if they are to keep their faint hopes alive. Andre Villas-Boas' side have drawn their last three matches 1-1 since that victory over City, and unless they can produce an impressive run, this will be regarded as a season of transition for the Portuguese coach in his first year in England. Aston Villa have not won for three matches and Alex McLeish continues to endure a rough ride - also in his first campaign with the club.
Form guide:
Chelsea: W W W D D D
Aston Villa: D L W L L D

• There have been six penalties awarded in the last four meetings between Chelsea and Villa at Stamford Bridge.
• Frank Lampard has scored five goals in Chelsea's last two home league games against Aston Villa.

Injuries:
Chelsea: • M Essien • B Ivanovic • J Obi Mikel
Aston Villa: • S Given • C Herd • E Lichaj • E Heskey
