Expert opinion: Ron ‘Chopper’ Harris backs Chelsea to beat Villa 2-1

Former Blues’ captain, Ron “Chopper” Harris believes that the champions will need to be at their very best if they are to emerge unscathed from what promises to be a fascinating clash.

“Gerard Houllier is still new to the role and his players will be eager to impress. Emile Heskey has been given a new lease of life following the Frenchman’s arrival, whilst Ashley Young is finally beginning to show his talent on a consistent basis.

"John Carew can be a real handful for any defence, and with both John Terry and Alex expected to miss the game through injury, Chelsea could come unstuck through the middle."

Chelsea suffered their first defeat of the season when they went down 1-0 at Manchester City, though Ancelotti will have been pleased with an instant response in the 2-0 win over Arsenal at Stamford Bridge a fortnight ago.

Frank Lampard, who hasn't featured since August, after aggravating a hernia problem in the 2-0 win over Stoke City, looks set to return to the Chelsea midfield, and Harris insists it will be the ideal tonic for the squad ahead of such an important game.

"Frank, along with John Terry, is a pivotal figure at the club. He's a world-class player that could walk into any side in the Premier League so of course he's been missed. It will be fantastic to have him back, and he'll be desperate to get back amongst the goals."

The absence of both Terry and Alex could open the door for Dutch defender Jeffrey Bruma to make a rare start, but it's another youngster that has caught Harris's eye in recent weeks.

“I’ve been really impressed with Josh McEachran. At 17-years-old the boy is a real talent, and he hasn’t looked out of place amongst a squad littered with internationals. He is comfortable on the ball and looks a very exciting prospect.

Having won only once on their previous five visits, it's fair to say that Villa Park is anything but a happy hunting ground for Chelsea. Last season's corresponding fixture saw the home side run out 2-1 winners after goals from the unlikely pair of Richard Dunne and James Collins wiped out Didier Drogba's fortuitous opener.

Harris, though, feels Chelsea's impressive start shows no signs of slowing down, and predicts a closely-fought away win.

"I can certainly see Villa causing Chelsea problems, but with Drogba and Malouda scoring goals for fun, I think Chelsea will nick it 2-1."

'Chopper' Harris was speaking to Mark Conlon