Paul Merson and William Gallas have both backed Chelsea to beat West Ham United this weekend.

Mauricio Pochettino's side will make the short trip across London to take on the Hammers at the London Stadium on Sunday afternoon. The Blues will be hoping to build on an impressive performance against Liverpool last weekend while West Ham came away with a 1-1 draw against Bournemouth.

Chelsea may hand debuts to Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia after both midfielders joined the Blues from Brighton and Southampton respectively this week. West Ham, meanwhile, could hand debuts to James Ward-Prowse and Edson Alvarez.

Former Blues defender Gallas has backed Chelsea to win the game on Sunday. Speaking to Genting Casino the 46-year-old said: "West Ham away is a derby and is always a tough game to play in. If Chelsea want to finish in the top four, they have no choice but to win the game.

"They can’t afford to lose or draw, so I think Chelsea will win 2-1."

Gallas' prediction: West Ham 1-2 Chelsea

Former Arsenal star Merson also believes the Blues will come away with all three points on Sunday. Speaking to Sportskeeda he said: "West Ham United did well last weekend against Bournemouth. They had to settle for a draw but they are a team that's difficult to break down.

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"I think Enzo Fernandez and Conor Gallagher played brilliantly against Liverpool. I also think Nicolas Jackson will be among the goals this season. However, if Chelsea are to make an impact and fight for a top four spot, they will rely heavily on Ben Chilwell and Reece James. Both of them need to stay fit and healthy throughout the season.

"The two wing-backs have got quality and they get up and down the pitch so well. I think Chelsea will cause West Ham problems on the counter-attack and I expect them to get all three points here. If they can win this game against the Hammers and beat Luton Town next week, that will be a solid start for Chelsea."

Merson's prediction: West Ham 1-2 Chelsea

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