Chelsea vs. Stoke City: Preview and TV schedule

As if having their title hopes dented by Crystal Palace last weekend wasn't enough, Chelsea's disappointment was compounded by a comprehensive defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League in midweek. They're still only a couple of points off the top of the Premier League table, though that could be extended to four if Manchester City win both of their games in hand.

With only six games left, it's obvious that the Blues can't afford to drop any more points if they're to stand any chance of lifting the title. They'll look to get back to winning ways away at Stoke City in Saturday's late kickoff, with Mark Hughes' side looking to continue their excellent run of form and continue their ascent up the top half of the table. They've won four of their last five, and shouldn't make life easy for José Mourinho's men.

Chelsea will be without Samuel Eto'o, Marco van Ginkel and Ramires, while full-back Ashley Cole is still in doubt with a knee injury. Stoke's only definite absentee is centre-back Robert Huth, with winger Oussama Assaidi facing a late fitness test.

Chelsea: Petr Čech; César Azpilicueta, John Terry, Gary Cahill, Branislav Ivanović; Frank Lampard, Nemanja Matić; Eden Hazard, Oscar, André Schürrle; Fernando Torres.

Stoke City: Asmir Begović; Erik Pieters, Marc Wilson, Ryan Shawcross, Geoff Cameron; Glenn Whelan, Steven N'Zonzi; Marko Arnautović, Stephen Ireland, Peter Odemwingie; Peter Crouch.