According to a report by Football London on Thursday, October 22, 2026, Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso is preparing for a demanding period as his team gets ready to face Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League on Saturday. The encounter will be followed by challenging fixtures against Liverpool and Manchester United, making the coming weeks important for Chelsea’s ambitions this season.

Chelsea have improved their position in the league after recording consecutive victories, moving up to fourth place in the standings. These results have strengthened confidence among supporters, although Tottenham’s recent victory suggests that the London derby could present a difficult challenge for Alonso’s side.

The Blues will also have to cope without two key players for Saturday’s match. Emi Martinez and club captain Reece James are unavailable after undergoing surgery for jaw and knee injuries, respectively. Their absences leave Alonso with additional selection concerns as he prepares his team for the encounter at Stamford Bridge.

Despite these setbacks, former England international Peter Crouch and ex-Chelsea midfielder Steve Sidwell believe the hosts have enough quality to defeat Tottenham. Speaking on That Peter Crouch Podcast, Crouch expressed confidence in Chelsea’s attacking strength and their chances of securing another important victory.

“Chelsea are clear favourites. Spurs have been poor, although they did win against Coventry. Such a big win for them,” Crouch remarked, acknowledging Tottenham’s recent 3-1 triumph over Coventry.

Although he recognised the significance of Tottenham’s result, Crouch maintained that Chelsea’s home advantage and attacking ability should make the difference. He backed Alonso’s team to claim a comfortable victory, adding: “I still fancy Chelsea at home. They score goals; I’m going to go, Chelsea 3-1.”

Sidwell also expects Chelsea to emerge victorious, pointing to their impressive form and home advantage. However, he acknowledged that Tottenham could become more dangerous with important creative players returning to the squad.

“Tottenham have Kulusevski and Maddison back; they’ve missed that creativity. But Chelsea are flying; they are at home. Clean sheet. Chelsea 2-0,” Sidwell stated.

Chelsea’s recent record against Tottenham further strengthens their position ahead of Saturday’s contest. The Blues have won 14 of their last 18 meetings, while Spurs have managed only two victories during that period. Chelsea have also won their last six consecutive encounters with their London rivals, including both matches last season.

Although Tottenham will approach the derby with renewed confidence, Chelsea’s attacking threat and winning momentum could prove decisive. Alonso will nevertheless need his players to remain disciplined defensively and take their opportunities if they are to extend their dominance over Tottenham.