Journalist: Chelsea aim to bounce back in Premier League clash with Ipswich | OneFootball

Ipswich vs Chelsea: Premier League Preview and Prediction

Ipswich Town host Chelsea FC in an exciting Premier League clash at Portman Road on Monday, December 30, 2024. After a mixed festive period for both teams, this match offers Chelsea a chance to finish the year on a high and strengthen their position in the top four. Meanwhile, Ipswich will look to make a statement in front of their home fans.

Kick-off Time, Venue, and How to Watch

The game is scheduled for a 7:45 pm BST kick-off at Portman Road. Unfortunately for fans in the UK, the match will not be televised live. However, you can follow updates and expert analysis via Standard Sport’s live blog with Malik Ouzia reporting from the ground.

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Photo: IMAGO

Team News and Line-ups

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has hinted at squad rotation to cope with the demanding festive fixture schedule. Speaking after the defeat to Fulham, Maresca emphasised the need to “recover the energy and go again on Monday,” adding that he would make changes to the starting XI.

Chelsea: Christopher Nkunku is expected to start, replacing Nicolas Jackson, while Joao Felix might feature in attack alongside Pedro Neto or Jadon Sancho. There is also speculation over Noni Madueke’s inclusion after being dropped in recent matches.

Ipswich: Ipswich welcome back captain Sam Morsy after suspension, a boost for Kieran McKenna’s side. However, they remain without Chiedozie Ogbene, Janoi Donacien, George Hirst, and Axel Tuanzebe due to injuries.

Prediction and Key Matchups

Chelsea come into this fixture on the back of a frustrating period, including a draw at Everton and a rare home loss to Fulham. These results have seen Arsenal leapfrog them into second place, leaving Liverpool seven points clear with a game in hand.

Ipswich, however, represent a less formidable challenge compared to recent opponents. The Tractor Boys endured an exhausting outing against Arsenal in their last match, which could impact their performance against Chelsea.

Expect Chelsea to dominate possession and exploit Ipswich’s defensive vulnerabilities. Players like Cole Palmer will be crucial in creating chances for a likely rotated but still potent attacking line-up. With Ipswich stretched, Chelsea should have enough quality to secure a comfortable victory.

Prediction: Chelsea to win, 3-0.

Head-to-Head Results and Form

Historically, Chelsea have enjoyed the upper hand in this fixture. Their attacking firepower and depth should prove decisive against an Ipswich side struggling with injuries. However, Ipswich’s passionate home crowd and battling spirit cannot be underestimated.

For Ipswich, the return of Morsy could provide stability in midfield, but they will need a monumental effort to match Chelsea’s quality across the pitch.

Chelsea’s trip to Portman Road offers an opportunity to rebound after recent setbacks. With key players returning and a chance to rotate the squad, Maresca’s side is well-positioned to take all three points. Ipswich, though undermanned, will aim to frustrate the visitors and make it an entertaining contest for the fans.

For those outside the UK looking to follow the action, remember to use LibertyShield.com for seamless streaming access.