The marquee match of the Premier League on Saturday features Chelsea and the Tottenham Hotspur.
At the center of the game's drama is not Chelsea's battle to stay in first place or Tottenham's attempts to jump into second; no at the center of the game is coach Andre Villas-Boas (AVB) and his chance to seek revenge on the squad the not only fired him, but humiliated him just months ago.
Back in June 2011, AVB arrived in Chelsea after his precocious experience as the international coach of the British Virgin Islands. He was promptly fired when things went South between he and team due to his inability to get major veterans to cooperate with his up tempo approach. AVB's season as Tottenham's coach did not get off to the ideal start either as he lost on opening day to Newcastle and then had to suffer two straight draws to West Bromwich and Norwich City. After that, his club has reeled off four straight wins, including a clutch one over Manchester United. Gareth Bale has led the way with tremendous form and 2 goals in seven games.
Chelsea has to live life without captain John Terry after his racist actions led to an extended suspension. However, the club has not lost in seven matches and has 19 of a possible 21 points. Leading the way is their tremendous trio of Eden Hazard, Juan Mata, and Oscar. Mata did not get called up for international duties so he should be well rested for Chelsea.
Prediction: Both teams have been looking good of late and Tottenham is at home. However Chelsea is the team to beat in the Premier League. 2-1 Chelsea.
Schedule: 7:45 a.m. EDT