Grant: Keeper worries

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Skysports.com prediction: 3-0

SKY BET odds: Chelsea 2/5, Draw 11/4, Aston Villa 13/2

One to Watch: Frank Lampard

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Chelsea will be looking to maintain the pressure on the leading pack against out-of-form Aston Villa at Stamford Bridge.

While The Blues have won four of their last five Premier League matches, Villa have gone four without a win after success at Blackburn.

Chelsea's 1-0 triumph at Ewood Park on Sunday moved them three points clear of Manchester City, although they remain five adrift of Manchester United and six of leaders Arsenal.

Keeper worries

Keeper Petr Cech is a major worry for Avram Grant after he collected a hip injury in the win over Blackburn.

With back-up keeper Carlo Cudicini also struggling with a rib injury, third-choice shot-stopper Hilario could well be in line for a rare start.

Key striker Didier Drogba (knee) remains on the sidelines, along with England international defender John Terry (metatarsal) and Florent Malouda (knee).

Andrei Shevchenko is likely to lead the line again for Chelsea, although Claudio Pizarro, who has just one Premier League goal to his name, is also in the frame.

Michael Ballack may be given his first start of the season after being an unused sub against Blackburn, although Grant may well stick with Frank Lampard, John Obi Mikel and Michael Essien in midfield.

Drafted in

Aston Villa midfielder Stilian Petrov could be drafted into Martin O'Neill's starting XI after making his return from a hamstring injury off the bench in the weekend draw with Manchester City.

However, the Bulgaria international will need to oust former Celtic team-mate Shaun Maloney from the side if he is to start against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.

Defender Curtis Davies is nearing full fitness after breaking a nose, although he is unlikely to play a part against The Blues on Boxing Day.