Chelsea's visit to Goodison Park last season was one to remember as we were treated to a nine-goal thriller. The eventual champions beat Everton 6-3 in the midst of an excellent start to the campaign.
This season has began in very contrasting fashion as the Blues have picked up just four points from their first four games and have already fallen eight points behind Manchester City.
Everton meanwhile haven't faired much better than their opponents. Five points from four games leaves them in 8th with plenty of room to improve.
Key Tactics
Everton:
It's not a mystery where Chelsea's weakest point has been this season and that's down their right side. Branislav Ivanovic has struggled mightily so far and with not much help down his flank, teams have been able to expose Chelsea. If Everton want a result on Saturday, they may want to attack the right flank if Ivanovic does keep his place in the starting lineup.
The goals have dried up for Diego Costa this season with the Spaniard finding the net just once in four games and with a short fuse, Everton can isolate the striker in order to frustrate him for large portions of the match.
Ross Barkley's energy in the middle of the pitch is certain to cause problems for Nemanja Matic and Cesc Fabregas, who have just not clicked this season. There is a real chance for the home side to come away with points, whether that's the case remains in doubt.
Chelsea:
The aforementioned problems of Chelsea's defence means changes must be made and the inclusion of Abdul Baba Rahman at left-back would shake up Jose Mourinho's backline, pushing Cesar Azpilicueta back to his natural right-back spot. The change would give Ivanovic a much needed break and a change of style for the Blues.
Diego Costa has looked isolated up front this season and a partner (Falcao) may be the solution until he finds his form again. As a team, Chelsea have to begin Saturday's match like they did in this fixture last season, by coming out of the blocks flying.
Cesc Fabregas has struggled often this season and may need either a break or an extra man in midfield alongside him to relinquish a few defensive duties. John Obi Mikel may find himself starting against Everton or even Ruben Loftus-Cheek, the youngster who is rated so highly by his manager.
Key Players
Chelsea- The Defence: Chelsea's back four conceded 32 goals in 38 games last season, a league best. This season however, they've conceded nine in four and in order for the Blues to stand any chance at defending their title, the defence has to shape up starting Saturday.
Everton- Ross Barkley: The Englishman netted his first goal for his country over the international break to add to his two Premier League goals so far this season. Already in form, Barkley's performance will likely have a large affect on the outcome of Saturday's meeting.