“I think Aston Villa will edge it – they’ve got the momentum and are in better form right now. Chelsea just don’t look convincing enough to take this one.” – Alan Shearer has confidently predicted that Chelsea will fall short against Aston Villa in their upcoming clash, citing Villa’s superior run of form as the deciding factor.

Chelsea are set to host Aston Villa on Sunday in a pivotal match for the race to secure Champions League qualification. Premier League legend Alan Shearer has shared his thoughts on how the game might unfold.

The Blues have enjoyed a solid start to the season, sitting in fourth place and currently on track for European competition. However, the standings remain tight, with Chelsea only three points ahead of eighth-placed Villa, who have won their last two visits to Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea recently snapped a rough patch with a crucial victory over Leicester, having managed just one win in their prior five games. Enzo Maresca’s squad has received a boost with the likely returns of Pedro Neto and Malo Gusto, both of whom missed the Leicester clash.

With just two losses in 12 league games, Chelsea could finish the weekend as high as second, depending on the outcome of Liverpool’s game against Manchester City. Meanwhile, Villa, winless in the league since October 19, will be eager to prove a tough opponent.

Shearer shared his prediction with The Metro:
“Aston Villa are on a bit of a tough run at the moment. They were unlucky against Juventus, and Chelsea are gaining momentum. I think Chelsea will take this one. My prediction: a Chelsea win.”

The game also marks the start of a challenging week for Chelsea, with trips to Southampton on Wednesday and Tottenham on Sunday following the Villa clash.