Rosenior’s Blues host Burnley with sights set on leapfrogging United

Chelsea return to Premier League action on Saturday as they host Burnley at Stamford Bridge, looking to strengthen their position in the table and extend their strong domestic run.

Liam Rosenior’s side have enjoyed a rare full week on the training ground after a busy schedule, and they hope the break will allow them to focus more on the race for a top five finish.

Advertisement

The Blues have only lost once in the league since the start of the year and remain firmly in contention for Champions League qualification.

However, recent dropped points against lower-ranked opposition are a reminder that nothing can be taken for granted.

Chelsea surrendered a two-goal lead in their final home league match against Leeds United, a result which halted the momentum at a crucial stage of the campaign.

This experience will reinforce the sense of caution facing a Burnley team fighting for survival.

Burnley arrive in west London still reeling from their FA Cup exit at the hands of League One side Mansfield Town.

Advertisement

Scott Parker’s men were beaten 2-1 despite going ahead, a defeat which ended their cup hopes and reignited the pressure around Turf Moor.

Yet the Clarets showed resilience in their previous league match, coming back from two goals down to beat Crystal Palace 3-2 in a rare victory.

The return ended a long winless streak and offered a glimpse of the character Parker hopes to see again.

Burnley remain deep in the relegation zone, but victory at Selhurst Park proves they are capable of punishing complacency.

Chelsea, however, present a challenge of a different caliber.

The Blues have been largely consistent at Stamford Bridge this season, although their home record has been marked by occasional stumbles.

Advertisement

They have greater quality in midfield and attack, and their ability to control possession should test a Burnley side who have struggled defensively on the road.

Burnley have failed to keep a clean sheet in their last 23 away matches in the top flight, a statistic which underlines the scale of their task.

For Chelsea, the objective is clear.

Three points would not only cement their league position but also keep the pressure on the teams above them.

Burnley will aim to disrupt the rhythm and exploit any errors, but if Chelsea live up to their recent standards, they should have enough to secure another vital victory.