When David Moyes returned to Everton, most people thought he was there to manage a relegation battle. Instead, the old fox has turned the Toffees into genuine European contenders.
Chelsea will need to be at their best on Saturday, because this Everton side is no pushover.
The form guide
Chelsea sit fourth on 25 points after a frustrating 0-0 draw at Bournemouth last weekend. Enzo Maresca's side have been solid but unspectacular - seven wins, three draws, and four defeats tells the story of a team that is good but not yet great.
Everton, meanwhile, are flying. That 3-0 demolition of Nottingham Forest was their statement performance of the season, and they now sit tenth on 24 points. One point behind Chelsea. Let that sink in for a moment.
The Toffees have won six of their last nine league matches. Moyes has got them organised, compact, and dangerous on the counter. Exactly what you would expect from the man who made his name at Goodison Park the first time around.
Key battles
Cole Palmer versus the Everton midfield will be fascinating. Chelsea's young star has been their creative spark all season, but Everton will look to suffocate him with their disciplined pressing.
Up front, Dominic Calvert-Lewin returns to haunt his former suitors. Chelsea were linked with the England striker for years, and he will be desperate to prove a point against the club that never quite pulled the trigger on signing him.
Team news
Chelsea have a relatively clean bill of health heading into this one. Reece James remains a doubt, but Maresca has options across the pitch.
Everton will be without suspended midfielder Abdoulaye Doucoure, which is a blow given his importance to their pressing game. But Moyes has shown he can adapt and find solutions.
What to expect
This will be tighter than most people think. Everton are not coming to Stamford Bridge to roll over - they genuinely believe they can get a result here.
Chelsea need to be patient. If they try to force it, Everton will hit them on the break. If they stay disciplined and move the ball quickly, they should create chances against a defence that has still conceded 17 goals this season.
Barry's prediction
Chelsea 2-1 Everton
Chelsea's quality should tell in the end, but do not be surprised if the Toffees make them sweat. This could be a cracker.
