Focus on Aston Villa goal markets for value at Chelsea

Aston Villa not only scored three goals at Anfield in their last Premier League game, but have also matched this feat in each of their previous two visits to Chelsea.

Therefore, 12/1 does seem a major price that Villa score over 2.5 goals in this fixture again at Stamford Bridge.

However, preference is for the 7/2 on Villa scoring over 1.5 goals, as they have in each of their last three meetings with Chelsea, alongside clashes with both Manchester United and Manchester City this season.

Considering Villa’s scoring exploits against Chelsea of late and the fact they have avoided defeat in four of their last six trips to Stamford Bridge, additional value may be found in the 8/1 for an away win.

This is enhanced by Chelsea being without either of their recognised holding midfielders John Obi Mikel or Oriol Romeu, while their squad has been exceptionally busy in the past week travelling to and from Japan and facing Leeds in the Capital One Cup.

Taking everything into consideration, Chelsea do seem on the short side at 4/11, even though Rafa Benitez has lost just once in 12 Premier League encounters with the Villans.

In terms of scorers, Andreas Weimann has been a revelation for Paul Lambert of late with five goals in his last six appearances in all competitions and is somehow 4/1 to be on target at any time in the 90 minutes.

For Chelsea, Frank Lampard looks the best bet at 2/1.

Lampard was unfortunate not to score at Leeds in midweek after coming close with a hatful of long-range efforts, while Phil Dowd is in charge of this one and he has given the most Premier League penalties this season.

All odds and markets accurate as of publication’s time and date