Jose Mourinho's side still have not been beaten, but a goalless draw against Sunderland followed by Manchester City's comfortable victory at Southampton was enough for many to question whether the title race will be much closer.

In truth, even at this stage of the season Chelsea are firm favourites to lift the title, but Mourinho will want to see a reaction against Tottenham Hotspur after his side were stifled by Sunderland's impressive defensive play.

If they are to return to winning ways, they will have to do so without Diego Costa, who will miss the meeting with Spurs due to suspension.

The Spaniard's absence will give either Didier Drogba or Loic Remy a rare chance to lead the attack, but there could be more changes as Mourinho looks to freshen up his side ahead of a hectic schedule.

Spurs will be underdogs to claim a positive result at a ground where they have struggled to upset their rivals over the years.

However, Mauricio Pochettino's side head into the game with renewed confidence thanks to a 2-1 victory over Everton, in which the Spurs players finally seemed to become more comfortable with the Argentine's fast pressing style.

Despite being criticised throughout the early stages of the season, Spurs now find themselves just two points outside the top four, and a win over the leaders would give Pochettino's team a big boost ahead of the Christmas schedule.

Spurs will be hoping that Vlad Chiriches can shake off a muscle injury, but Kyle Naughton or Eric Dier are on standby to deputise should the Romanian miss out.

Chelsea:

Form in Premier League: WDWWWD
Form in all competitions: WDWWWD

Possible starting lineup: Courtois; Ivanovic, Cahill, Terry, Azpilicueta; Matic, Fabregas; Schurrle, Oscar, Hazard; Remy

Spurs:

Form in Premier League: LLWLWW
Form in all competitions: WWLWWW

Possible starting lineup: Lloris; Naughton, Vertonghen, Fazio, Davies; Lennon, Bentaleb, Mason, Eriksen; Kane, Soldado

Sports Mole says: 2-1