Former Manchester City and England goalkeeper David James believes that Chelsea are the team to beat at the top of the league, despite their recent run of form.
The Blues are currently third in the league, two points off of leaders Manchester City and one point behind second-placed Liverpool.
Thomas Tuchel’s side had set the pace early on, leading the way for the majority of the season so far.
However, a run that has included two draws and a loss to West Ham in recent weeks has seen the other two title contenders close the gap and overtake the Blues.
All three sides managed to win at the weekend to keep up an enthralling title race so far, with plenty of games left to go.
Tuchel saw his side win it late against Leeds with a last-gasp penalty that was converted by Jorginho.
The midfielder scored twice from the spot on the day, whilst Mason Mount’s cool finish saw the side cancel out Raphinha and Joe Gelhardt goals for the visitor’s.
Ex-Manchester City shot-stopper David James believes that Chelsea are currently the side to beat if any of the other two teams want to go on to win the title.
Speaking to Stadium Astro, James said: “I’m just so glad Chelsea won today because my argument is that anyone, and I’m sure a lot of people have said it, but anyone who beats Chelsea essentially can consider themselves Premier League winners.”
Of their two losses this season, Tuchel’s side have suffered a loss to Pep Guardiola’s team, but held on for a draw against Jurgen Klopp with ten men on the day.
James continued: “I’ve actually tipped them not to be top of the table come Christmas based on the games they’re got coming up. Man City and Liverpool’s fixtures are a lot more comfortable.
“But everyone has struggled to a point. Last weekend there were tight wins [for Liverpool and Manchester City].
“It’s a tough season but I think Chelsea are the team to beat.
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“When you see Liverpool in this kind of determined form, stringing wins together, of course they are going to run them close.”
Chelsea host Everton at Stamford Bridge on Thursday in their next Premier League fixture, hoping to keep themselves in the race at the top.
