Swansea City's outstanding start to the season under managerial novice Garry Monk means their clash with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Saturday will determine who sits top of the Premier League table after four games. As it stands, only goal difference places the Blues above the Swans, with both sides having won all three of their opening matches this season.
Chelsea vs. Swansea City live stream: How to watch the EPL online, TV schedule and more
The Premier League’s two table-toppers meet at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.
Key player - Diego Costa (Chelsea)
Chelsea summer signing Diego Costa has made an outstanding start to life at Stamford Bridge, with the former Atlético Madrid man having netted four goals in his opening three Premier League games. His strength and physicality has helped him transition seamlessly into the English game, and it’ll be very difficult for Swansea to keep the Spanish international quiet on Saturday.
Key matchup - Nemanja Matić vs. Ki Sung-yueng
Perhaps the most important factor in Swansea's excellent start to the season has been midfielder Ki Sung-yueng, who has been outstanding since he returned from a loan spell at Sunderland. He has not only run the midfield with his wonderful passing ability, but also shown a goalscoring touch -- he scored in the Swans' shock win over Manchester United on the opening day of the season. If Chelsea's midfield all-rounder Nemanja Matić can keep him quiet, Swansea could struggle.
Chelsea injuries and suspensions
Out: None. In doubt: Eden Hazard (achilles), Diego Costa (hamstring).
Swansea City injuries and suspensions
Out: Marvin Emnes, Leon Britton (knee), Alan Tate (hamstring). In doubt: None.
Chelsea have no certain absentees, though Eden Hazard and Diego Costa both face late fitness tests. Given that they’re probably Chelsea’s two best players, José Mourinho will be praying they’re both available. Swansea, meanwhile, are without striker Marvin Emnes, midfielder Leon Britton and defender Alan Tate, though none of those absences will concern Monk too much.
Match Date/Time: Saturday, 3 p.m. local, 10 a.m. ET
Venue: Stamford Bridge, London, England
TV: NBCSN (U.S.), Sportsnet (Canada)
Online: NBC Sports Live Extra (U.S.), Sportsnet World Now (Canada)
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