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One of the most anticipated fixtures of the Premier League is the upcoming heavyweight clash between the two fierce London rivals: Chelsea and Tottenham. This rivalry is for all the ages. Though Chelsea has a better head-2-head record, Tottenham have gradually turned themselves into genuine title contenders since the 2015-16 season.
Mauricio Pochettino has instilled a sense of belief amongst the fans since he took charge of the North London side. The investments made have brought genuine quality to the squad which has reflected in their performances as well.
Even, the manager's philosophy has been praised by football fraternity all over the world. The impressive Argentine's record at Spurs has seen him linked with several top European sides like Real Madrid and Manchester United.
On the other hand, the Blues after losing out on the Champions League places last time out have displayed their sheer quality once again this campaign, mainly due to their manager, Maurizio Sarri.
The Italian who replaced Antonio Conte in the summer has transformed Chelsea from a defensive side to an attacking one. Chelsea is still unbeaten in the League and would look to keep that record intact this week as well.
The two teams are separated by just one point in the league and a win could take Pochettino's side above Chelsea in the table. There are world-class players on both sides, and it might come down to some key battles to decide the outcome of the match.
Here is a look at some of the critical clashes which might tilt the game towards either side.
#3 Jorginho vs. Eric Dier
Manchester City wanted Jorginho in the summer, but Sarri's relationship with the player at Napoli got him to sign for Chelsea. He is at the heart of everything that the Blues create from the midfield.
Ngolo Kante is among the best defensive midfielders in the world but when a player dispatches the Frenchman from his preferred position, he ought to be someone special.
However, Jorginho would have his task cut out against another talented midfielder, Eric Dier who has been a reliable player for Pochettino for quite a few years now. Dier is strong and is especially dangerous from set pieces.
The England International's primary role would be to stop Jorginho dictating the play and not allow him any free space in the midfield. With both the players in good form, it would be some battle to watch.
#2 Harry Kane vs. Luiz/Rudiger
There was some doubt about David Luiz's chances in the team when Sarri took charge of Chelsea. The Brazilian flourished in a 3-4-3 formation under Conte which contradicts Maurizio's philosophy of playing in a back four.
However, his partnership with Antonio Rudiger has been admirable, with Luiz being a guaranteed starter in every game.
The defensive duo would face one of the best strikers in the League who even on a bad day can change the game on its head. The recently concluded International break saw Harry Kane come up with a winner against Croatia after England trailed with just twenty minutes to go.
It would give him much confidence going into the game. Kane is still far off from his very best and would look to take the match against Chelsea as the perfect opportunity to get back his League form.
#1 Eden Hazard vs. Kieran Trippier
The Belgian is one of the top players in the world and often compared to the likes of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. He is intelligent, skilful and has an eagle eye for the goal.
The Belgium International is second in the list of top scores this season and already has a hat-trick to his name against Cardiff City earlier in the campaign. It is safe to say when Eden Hazard is in form, Chelsea are a joy to watch. The way he drifts in from the flanks and plays one-two touch football with the forwards is exquisite.
However, Spurs has their weapon to deal with the Hazard threat in the form of England right fullback, Kieran Trippier. He burst into the scene after Walker left Spurs for City a couple of seasons back.
He is a livewire on the right flank, helping the team both in attack and defence. One of his strengths is the long-range free kicks which are a rarity for a defender. Trippier would have to be at his very best to not only stop Hazard but also move forward in attack.
If he can stop Eden from performing at his best, it would do his confidence a world of good for rest of the season.
