Chelsea travels to Wolves this weekend and here are some prematch facts to keep in mind for the fans of both clubs to ponder. Although football is not mathematics, history tends to repeat itself more often than not.
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As we take a dive into the strength and weaknesses of both teams. Chelsea with a win so far and Wolves without a win but three draws, both teams are looking for a change of fortune and would be looking to set-off on a better path with this one.
We begin with some trivials;
Head-to-head
Chelsea won seven of the first eight meetings with Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Premier League era, but were unable to better the Old Gold team in two attempts last season. Chelsea lost 1-2 at the Molineux and drew at the Bridge.
Winning Mentality
The last player to score a win for Chelsea at Wolves was Frank Lampard in 2012 scoring a late winner to make it 2-1 for a Chelsea win. Now Lampard is Chelsea’s coach, he’s with a young side, the youngest they ever featured in the league and is under the microscope and be asked to prove himself. Chelsea’s buying prowess meant nothing last summer thanks to a FIFA transfer ban which sees them unable to recruit until next summer.
Goal Poachers
The blue’s attack leader, Tammy Abraham has started the league in fine form has now managed the second most multiple-goal league matches for Chelsea over the past two and a bit seasons (80 games). Eden Hazard scored two or more eight times in 71 outings, while Alvaro Morata did so in two of his 47 appearances.
Creators
The Blues have managed the third most shots (68) of the campaign after Liverpool (70) and Manchester City (77), but share fifth place for goals scored (six). Jorginho’s creative influence this season is emphasised by the fact he has initiated 11 moves leading to a shooting opportunity so far this season – the most in the league.
Saturday’s hosts have Wolves have created 39 chances, one more than the most shot-shy side, Sheffield United.
And, for the “excuses”
The 3-2 defeat at Everton a fortnight ago came in what was already Wolves’ 10th competitive game of the season. They won all six of their Europa League qualifiers – their first continental campaign for 38 years. Having played more games than Chelsea this season might factor into the outcome of Saturday’s match.