Former footballer David Dunn has predicted that Chelsea will miss out on a top-five finish in the Premier League this season, despite their strong campaign.
With the season drawing to a close, the ex-Blackburn and Birmingham star believes the Blues' recent defeat to Newcastle has dealt a significant blow to their Champions League hopes.
He expects Aston Villa to secure crucial victories in their remaining fixtures against Tottenham and Manchester United.
Dunn also anticipates Chelsea will stumble in their final match against Nottingham Forest, who are still fighting for points themselves.
David Dunn predicts his top 5
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This slip-up could prove costly as the battle for European qualification reaches its climax.
"I honestly think Chelsea will miss out on the top five this season," he told William Hill. "Losing to Newcastle is a big blow and with Aston Villa having back-to-back wins, their next two fixtures are against the Europa League finalists, who are both surprisingly having bad seasons in the league.
"I expect Aston Villa to beat Spurs at home and win at Manchester United, so Chelsea have to match Villa’s results in the final two games.
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"With Nottingham Forest away in the final game, I see Chelsea slipping up there as Forest, who are also in the hunt, can end the season with a positive result.
"What a season for Newcastle I have to mention. Winning the Carabao Cup and then putting together a strong run in the league after that.
Dunn then lavished praise on Toon boss Eddie Howe.
Dunn has nothing but praise for Newcastle United
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"Full credit to Eddie Howe, who is once again, showing what a top manager he is," he added.
"[Alexander] Isak has been brilliant this season, but the whole team is playing well."
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Dunn also highlighted Brentford manager Thomas Frank as an "unsung hero" of the season, with the Bees pushing for Europe.
"I must mention a manager who is an unsung hero and that is Thomas Frank at Brentford," he said.
"What a remarkable job he keeps doing and Brentford, currently sitting in 8th position are having a superb season.
"The quality of football they play is fantastic. A group of talented footballers, who all by into the coach and what he is asking is great to see."
David Dunn tips Keane Lewis-Potter to move to a bigger club
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He continued: "[Bryan] Mbuemo and Wissa have been excellent. My unsung player of the season is Keane Lewis Potter.
"He is so talented and great to watch. So comfortable on the ball, he impresses me every time I watch him. Starting out in an attacking position, he has made this position his own on the left side at Brentford and I like him a lot and can see him getting a move to a bigger team soon.
"So full credit to Brentford, for once again showing with a smallish budget, they can secure a top half finish in the Premier League with the right principles and style of play."