Brentford vs Chelsea Predictions

• Both teams have scored in 12 of Chelsea’s last 15 Premier League away games
• The Blues have kept just one clean sheet in their last 26 league matches
• Brentford are unbeaten in their last six league outings but have won just one of them

Blues are flourishing under Alonso

There have been a few false dawns in recent years at Chelsea, but the signs under new boss Xabi Alonso are encouraging, and even if a push for the Premier League title proves beyond them this season, it seems they are going to entertain everyone trying.

There is a zip about the Blues, whose only defeat so far this term has been a 2-1 reverse at champions Arsenal, with Morgan Rogers settling well after making a big-money move from Aston Villa while Cole Palmer looks to be back to his best following an underwhelming campaign that cost him his place in the England World Cup squad.

What has been particularly noticeable is the amount of goals that have been flying in during their matches – there have been 30 in their six outings – and while there is still the odd question about the quality of their defence, they are likely to provide London rivals Brentford with a real test just based on the quality of their attacking.

Bees could face a difficult challenge

The Bees had a fine first season under Keith Andrews last year when the news that he was taking over from Thomas Frank persuaded many that they were set for a relegation battle.

Their ninth-placed finish which was not quite enough for European football defied the doubters and there was more excitement at the start of the season when they began the campaign with a 3-0 home win over big-spending Spurs.

However, they have been unable to ride that wave and a second win has eluded them, despite draws with Leeds, Sunderland and Bournemouth being far from disgraceful.

They lost the shot count against both the Black Cats and the Cherries and it may be that they are unable to keep a lid on the Chelsea attack, so the visitors are taken to come away with the points, although those looking for entertainment are unlikely to be disappointed.

Pedro is in fine form

A 3-2 away win may be of interest to those looking for a correct-score bet, while Chelsea striker Joao Pedro will be a popular anytime-goalscorer choice.

The Brazilian has become a key attacking option for Alonso and has rewarded his new manager with a goal in three of his first four games, while also registering three assists.

He can be relied upon to produce the finish to hard work from Palmer and Rogers, so expect him to increase his tally at the Gtech on Friday.