Chelsea will be desperate to reassert their challenge for the English Premier League title when they visit White Hart Lane in north London today for what could be a far-reaching derby clash with Tottenham Hotspur.
From being hailed as just about home after a runaway start to the season, the Blues have slumped to third place behind Arsenal and Manchester United. It's hard to remember when last they won a match. And if they lose to the exciting Spurs side, that sinking feeling among their fans will intensify.
Spurs, too, will want the points. They have been touted as realistic title outsiders - which made former Liverpool great John Barnes scoff on TV the other night - and will move to within a point of the defending champions if they win.
A potent attacking force, Tottenham can be depended on to score.
You can also count on them finding a way to concede a goal or two, and Chelsea will be happy to give them every assistance.
Left winger Gareth Bale has been acclaimed as Spurs' man of the moment, and a candidate for Premier League Player of the Year, so a big contribution can be expected from him.
However, as serious a problem for Chelsea might come from the opposite wing, where the clash between the mercurial Aaron Lennon and star defender Ashley Cole will probably define the match.
Spurs save their best for the big clubs and I'm taking them at 19-10 to inflict more misery on a stuttering Chelsea (145-100). A draw is 22-10.
There is another appealing clash tomorrow night when log leaders Arsenal travel to second-placed Manchester United. It is a game that just gets bigger every year and this is no exception.
The Gunners have the talent to condemn the Red Devils to their first league defeat of the season but it is a very hard match to call.
An Arsenal supporter told me gloomily: "We'll outplay them totally and lose 2-1. And Arsene Wenger will throw his water bottle in frustration. I'd take a bet on that if I could."
Translated, it means that for all Arsenal's silky movement and passing, United and manager Alex Ferguson have learned how to win, even when they're not playing well. It's a priceless skill, for which Fergie must take great credit.
It is most likely also why the bookies have priced the home side up as even-money favourites and the visitors at a very reasonable 28-10. A draw is 23-10.
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