Chris Sutton believes Chelsea could come out on top against Bournemouth if Cole Palmer is available and sharp after his injury layoff. The predictions contributor said the match could go either way, but he was leaning toward Chelsea because of what Palmer adds to their frontline.
Chelsea's attack could make the difference
Sutton said he was tempted to back Bournemouth, especially with the way late goals have gone against them in recent matches. But he ultimately settled on Chelsea because he expects Palmer to be rested and refreshed, which could help the Blues' attack click at the right time.
That is the key theme in Sutton's view of the Premier League game: Chelsea have had clear defensive problems, but their attacking quality gives them a stronger route to victory. If Palmer is close to full sharpness, Chelsea have another player who can help turn possession into chances.
Bournemouth still waiting for a win under Marco Rose
Bournemouth's situation is also not ideal. Under Marco Rose, they have not won yet, and the source frames them as unlucky because costly late goals have hurt their recent results. That makes this trip a difficult one even before considering the players they are missing.
One of those absentees is Alex Scott, who became unavailable for a while after suffering an injury on international duty. His absence removes another option for Bournemouth at a time when they are already trying to get their season moving in the right direction.
For Chelsea, the question is simple: if Cole Palmer is rested and refreshed after his injury, can their frontline do enough to outweigh the defensive issues? Sutton thinks that is the most likely path to a result, which is why he backed Chelsea in a game he expects to be close.
