(Football news) Chelsea have had a very troubling first half of the season. Having finished 3rd in the Premier League last season this was the season where they were expected to mount a title challenge. That didn’t happen as the new owners sacked manager Thomas Tuchel who was in a bad run of form. Brighton manager Graham Potter was appointed as a replacement and unfortunately for the blues he hasn’t got the necessary results so far. Chelsea are currently 9th on the Premier League table and the pressure on Potter is rising.

After the World Cup break, Chelsea now prepare to take on Bournemouth at Stamford Bridge. Striker Armando Broja is out for the season following an ACL injury he suffered in a friendly match. Hakim Ziyech and Mateo Kovacic will also be unavailable having recently played the 3rd place match at the World Cup. Wesley Fofana, N’Golo Kante, Ben Chilwell and Ruben Loftus-Cheek still haven’t recovered from their injuries while Kepa Arrizabalaga and Mason Mount are likely to be in the squad despite initial doubt. As for Bournemouth, David Brooks and Neto will be out while Ben Pearson, Ryan Fredericks, Joe Rothwell, Jefferson Lerma, Marcus Tavernier and Lloyd Kelly remain a doubt.

Newly promoted Bournemouth are currently 14th and a win would help them jump a couple of places on the table. Interim manager Gary O’Neil was appointed on a permanent basis during the World Cup break. A result against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge will be the perfect way for him to start his reign at Bournemouth. The biggest thorn in his side will be Raheem Sterling who has had a decent World Cup with England. The duo of Dominic Solanke and Kieffer Moore up front will be the key for the visitors.

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