According to a report by Football London on Thursday, October 22, 2026, Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso is preparing for a challenging run of fixtures, starting with Saturday’s Premier League clash against Tottenham Hotspur before facing Liverpool and Manchester United.

Chelsea have gained momentum after recording back-to-back league wins, a run that has lifted them to fourth place in the standings. However, Tottenham’s recent victory has added another dimension to the London derby, with Alonso’s side needing to maintain their focus to protect their positive form.

The Blues will also be without two important players for the encounter. Emi Martinez is sidelined following surgery on a broken jaw, while captain Reece James is recovering from a knee operation. Their absences could force Alonso to make adjustments as he prepares his team for the weekend.

Despite those concerns, former England striker Peter Crouch and ex-Chelsea midfielder Steve Sidwell believe the hosts have enough quality to overcome their London rivals.

Speaking on That Peter Crouch Podcast, Crouch backed Chelsea to take all three points, pointing to Tottenham’s inconsistent performances despite their recent 3-1 victory over Coventry.

“Chelsea are clear favourites. Spurs have been poor, although they did win against Coventry. Such a big win for them,” Crouch said.

He remains confident that Chelsea’s home advantage and attacking threat will make the difference, predicting a 3-1 victory for Alonso’s team.

Sidwell also tipped Chelsea to win, citing their strong form and the benefit of playing at Stamford Bridge. However, he warned that Tottenham could pose a threat with key creative players returning to action.

“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 predicted.

Chelsea’s recent head-to-head record further strengthens their confidence ahead of Saturday’s contest. The Blues have won 14 of their last 18 meetings with Tottenham, while Spurs have recorded just two victories during that spell.

Alonso’s side have also won their last six consecutive matches against Tottenham, including both encounters between the clubs last season. Chelsea will now look to extend that impressive run and maintain their upward momentum in the Premier League.

Although Tottenham will arrive encouraged by their latest result, Chelsea’s attacking quality and recent consistency could prove important. However, Alonso will need his players to remain organised defensively if they are to secure another victory and build further confidence ahead of their upcoming fixtures.