Paul Merson delivers his prediction for Crystal Palace v Chelsea
Paul Merson looks ahead to Chelsea's clash with Crystal Palace on Saturday afternoon in the Premier League
Paul Merson is tipping Chelsea to beat Crystal Palace 1-0 in a close game in the Premier League on Saturday afternoon.
The west London side head into the game looking to get back to winning ways after the disappointment of their 1-0 defeat by Manchester City at Stamford Bridge before the international break.
Chelsea are currently in fourth place in the Premier League table and six points behind Manchester City after a mixed start to the new campaign for Antonio Conte’s men.
However, former Arsenal star Merson is backing the Blues to claim all three points against the Eagles on Saturday afternoon.
Speaking on Sky Sports News on Friday morning, Merson said: “I’ve gone 1-0 to Chelsea. I think this is a hard game: No Morata, no Kante, who are two big players for Chelsea.
“I still don’t see Palace scoring, I think Chelsea will still have enough.
“But it’s a difficult game coming in off the international break. It’s a hard game for Chelsea.”
Chelsea are aiming to win the Premier League for the third time in four seasons after their impressive triumph under Conte last term.
The Blues return to Champions League action on Wednesday night with a crunch clash against AS Roma at Stamford Bridge.
The west London side have made a strong start in Europe this season, winning their opening two games against Qarabag and Atletico Madrid.
