MX23RW : Friday, March 29 01:18:32| >> :60:1644:1644:
Everton logo
Premier League
Dec 30, 2012 at 1.30pm UK
 
Chelsea logo

1-2

Pienaar (2')
FT(HT: 1-1)
Lampard (42', 72')

Preview: Everton vs. Chelsea

Preview: Everton vs. Chelsea
© PA Photos
Sports Mole previews the Premier League clash between Everton and Chelsea at Goodison Park, with both teams having recorded consecutive wins so far during the festive period.

Everton will put their unbeaten home record on the line when Rafael Benitez's improving Chelsea visit Goodison Park on Sunday.

Just two places and two points separate the pair of Champions League hopefuls in the Premier League table, but Chelsea may have their eyes on a bigger prize.

Following four successive domestic victories, including an 8-0 thrashing of Aston Villa, there is fresh talk of a title challenge at Stamford Bridge.

Frank Lampard may return to the Blues XI after being rested for the victory over Norwich City, but Ramires and John Obi Mikel are also in contention to partner David Luiz in central midfield.

Eden Hazard is another who started on the bench at Carrow Road, but is likely to feature from the beginning against the Toffees, with either Victor Moses or Oscar making way.

The hosts are still without talismanic midfielder Marouane Fellaini, who will serve the final game of his three-match suspension.

Fellow Belgian Kevin Mirallas and long-serving full-back Tony Hibbert are also unavailable due to hamstring strains.

Darron Gibson should continue in central midfield after his red card against West Ham United was rescinded by the FA, while Steven Naismith could also be recalled by David Moyes.

Recent form

Everton: WWDWDD

Chelsea: WWWLDD

Possible lineups

Everton: Howard; Neville, Jagielka, Distin, Baines; Naismith, Gibson, Osman, Pienaar; Jelavic, Anichebe

Chelsea: Cech; Azpilicueta, Ivanovic, Cahill, Cole; Luiz, Lampard; Hazard, Mata, Moses; Torres

Sports Mole says: 1-1


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Chelsea manager Rafa Benitez - in front of Frank Lampard - on the bench at Carrow Road on December 26, 2012
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