3 key battles as Chelsea host Middlesbrough in the Premier League this evening

N’Golo Kante vs Adam Clayton

The battle for midfield supremacy is always hugely significant in the Premier League, and it’s something Chelsea’s N’Golo Kante and Boro’s Adam Clayton will go head-to-head for this evening.

The PFA Player of the Year Kante has been in outstanding form for the league leaders this season, starting all but two of their Premier League matches this term, and helping the side to a four-point lead over Tottenham following a series of match-winning displays.

He is well on his way to securing a second league title in just two years in England, yet his opposite number Clayton will have something to say about that as only a positive result will keep Middlesbrough in the top-flight.

The 28-year-old has been a consistent performer in the Boro midfield this term, featuring in 31 of their Premier League games, and how well he is able to match Kante and keep things moving for his side in the middle will be crucial to their chances.

It’s goes without saying that Kante is arguably the best central midfielder in the division, yet Clayton’s own energy and tenacity could cause the Chelsea midfield some problems on a huge night in West London.