Paul Merson and Chris Sutton have predicted whether or not Chelsea will defeat Leicester City this weekend. Mauricio Pochettino will welcome the Foxes to Stamford Bridge on Sunday afternoon as either side hopes to book a place in the FA Cup semi-final.
The Blues head into the clash following a 3-2 win against Newcastle United, meanwhile, Enzo Maresca's side will be looking to return to winning ways after a 2-2 draw with Hull City at the MKM Stadium. With Chelsea struggling to break into the top half of the Premier League table, the FA Cup could be their only door into Europe next season.
In fact, the west London outfit missed out on place in the Europa Conference League after losing to Liverpool in the Carabao Cup final last month. In a column for SportsKeeda, Merson suggested that defeat to Leicester could cost Pochettino his job at Chelsea – and only remaining support he had from fans.
«I've got to go with Chelsea as Leicester City have other fish to fry at the moment,» said the former Arsenal midfielder. «At this point in time, I just don't think they need this football match at all as they need to concentrate on getting back to the Premier League next season.
»The problem with Mauricio Pochettino's side is that they play well for 10 minutes in a game and are bad for 20 — they need to step it up on this front. Making it through to the FA Cup semifinals will be a huge boost for Chelsea fans as it will keep them happy.
«If they lose, their season is virtually over and that won't be a good look for the manager, especially if they go out against a Championship club. Chelsea 3-1 Leicester City.»
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