Birmingham City v Chelsea

The surprising Birmingham City will face the strictest of tests when they play host to the league leaders Chelsea in week 19 of the Premier League. Both clubs were able to hold out for draws away from home in their most recent league match.

Last week, Birmingham City drew away to Everton by a score of 1-1 at Goodison Park with Larsson scoring the equalizer after they had fallen behind. The point earned on the road leaves them in 7th place of the Premier League with 28 points, 1 point behind the 6th place Manchester City who have one game in hand on them and 1 point ahead of the 8th place Liverpool. The side managed by Alex McLeish have five injury concerns at this time with O’Connor, Murphy, and Tainio all out, while Taylor and Parnaby are doubtful.

The visiting Chelsea played to a 1-1 draw away to West Ham United at Upton Park their last time out. Chelsea had fallen behind on a goal in the first half but were able to equalize midway through the second half when Frank Lampard scored from the penalty spot. That result leaves Chelsea sitting atop the Premier League with 41 points and they enjoy a 4 point lead on Manchester United. The team has two confirmed injury absences at this time in Bosingwa and Michael Essien.

Live Premier League
Birmingham City v Chelsea
St. Andrews Ground, kick off 1245 hours