English Premier League: Sunday Match Previews: Nov 14, 2010

Joe LazarNov 13, 2010

Everton vs Arsenal

Fellaini will be absent for three matches, following his sending off against Bolton. Everton could see the return of Heitinga, who missed the match midweek due to a knee concern. The "Toffees" have only lost three of their last 23 Premiership matches and it looks like they may have a pretty good chance in this match. Whilst Everton still haven’t quite found the form that people expect of them, they are not in a terrible position in the league in terms of points and a home win could go a long way to clawing themselves up the table.

Whilst the Toffees are without a few important players, that is nothing in comparison to the amount of players that Arsenal are without. After a disappointing loss against Newcastle, Arsenal are looking like a team which is really feeling the sting of an injury crisis and while Wenger blames their poor results on complacency, it looks a lot more serious than that. Last season this fixture was the Arsenal show and while another 6-1 victory would be impressive, it does seem unlikely since only Chelsea and Manchester City have better defensive records than Everton (11 goals against) so far this season.

Chelsea vs Sunderland

Essien will begin his three match ban after being sent off mid week and Alex is still absent due to injury, but Anelka will be fit for selection after recovering from a back complaint. Last year, this match was Chelsea’s through and through: they won 7-2 and the gap in ability between the two sides hasn’t lessened a great deal. There is only one way this match should go and that is in favour of the home side. It isn’t really a question of if they will win it, but rather by how many goals. Any other result besides a win would be something of an embarrassment for Chelsea.

Sunderland will be without the instrumental Bent which, when you add the fact that the Black Cats have only won one of their last 24 away games, doesn’t bode well for their chances against the Premiership's leaders. A draw would be more than acceptable, albeit a little bit hopeful. Sunderland have not won any of their last 12 meetings with Chelsea, which highlights the huge gulf between the two sides, so the smart money is on Chelsea.