Chelsea v Tottenham: Leggy Blues vulnerable in feisty affair

TOM LOVE (@TomLove_18) has perused the markets ahead of Wednesday night's big Premier League clash from Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea v Tottenham | Wednesday 27th February 2019, 20:00 | BT Sport

This fixture seems to crop up more than most. These two London rivals usually serve up an entertaining affair and both will be looking to bounce back after defeats at the weekend.

Chelsea defended well and took Man City to penalties in the EFL Cup final on Sunday; a performance that was overshadowed by Kepa Arrizabalaga refusing to be substituted ahead of the shoot-out.

Many have said he’s undermined Maurizio Sarri’s authority but Kepa himself has said he wasn’t injured and therefore didn’t have to come off. Either way, it’s unprofessional and highlights the worrying chasm between players and manager.

Spurs were downed 2-1 at Turf Moor against Burnley on Saturday, a huge blow for their slim title chances. Harry Kane was back for that one though and he scored on return, it’s a real boom for Mauricio Pochettino. Kane’s comeback is even more timely as he loves playing against the Blues.

These games are usually feisty affairs and I was surprised to see 13/10 for both teams to collect Over 1.5 Cards on BetVictor’s Price It Up feature. With both eager to get back on track and the rivalry between the sides it’s got a decent chance.

Fatigue could also play a big factor here. With Chelsea going 120 minutes at the weekend and having a day’s less rests than Spurs it makeS quotes as short as 6/5 look unbackable on the hosts.

Spurs have done most of their damage in the latter stages of games after going into the break all-square. We can get 13/2 (BetVictor) on Draw/Spurs FT and given the circumstances that could also be worth a small punt.