Chelsea have made their worst league start in almost three decades, with José Mourinho’s side just a place and a couple of points outside the relegation zone after five matches. A win over Maccabi Tel Aviv in their Champions League opener in midweek relieved some of the pressure, but another defeat at home to London rivals Arsenal in the Premier League’s early Saturday fixture would only crank it up yet further.
Chelsea vs. Arsenal 2015 live stream: Time, TV schedule and how to watch online
Chelsea will look to record only their second win of the Premier League season at home to Arsenal on Saturday.
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Arsenal have gone rather better in the league so far, with last weekend's 2-0 win over Stoke City seeing them move onto 10 points from their opening five matches. Arsène Wenger's men suffered a blow in a shock defeat to Dinamo Zagreb in midweek, though that could make the Gunners all the more determined to bounce back in this fixture against one of their biggest top flight rivals.
Key factor: How will Arsenal approach the game?
Whereas Mourinho is often seen as a very cynical manager, minimizing his side's chances of making a mistake by relinquishing possession and striking on the counter-attack, Wenger is the total opposite. He believes in attractive, possession-based football, even at the cost of defensive security. Occasionally he adapts for big games, as in their win away at Manchester City last season, and he'll have to do so again here: if not, he'll be walking straight into the Chelsea trap.
Key matchup: Eden Hazard vs. Héctor Bellerín
Chelsea's most gifted attacking player is undoubtedly Eden Hazard, whose pace and skill out on the left flank makes him a devastating outlet on the counter-attack. In this match, he'll be going up against Arsenal's young Catalan full-back Héctor Bellerín, who has impressed with his lightning pace down the right side over the last couple of seasons, and who'll have to be at his defensive best against Hazard.
Chelsea injuries and suspensions
Out: Thibaut Courtois (knee), Willian (hamstring). In doubt: Pedro (thigh), Radamel Falcao (knee).
Arsenal injuries and suspensions
Out: Jack Wilshere (calf), Danny Welbeck (knee). In doubt: Tomáš Rosický (knee).
Chelsea will certainly be without starting goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and winger Willian, while winger Pedro is also likely to miss out. Center forward Falcao faces a late fitness test. Arsenal, meanwhile, will still be without midfielder Jack Wilshere and striker Danny Welbeck; attacking midfielder Tomáš Rosický could, however, be involved.
Match Date/Time: Saturday, 7:45 a.m. ET, 12:45 p.m. local
Venue: Stamford Bridge, London, England
TV: NBCSN (U.S. - English), NBC Universo, NBC Deportes En Vivo Extra (U.S. - Spanish), TSN5 (Canada), BT Sport 1 (U.K.)
Online: NBC Sports Live Extra (U.S.), BT Sport 1 (U.K.)
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