Premier League champions Chelsea are in a relegation battle according to their manager Guus Hiddink. The London club are languishing in 14th place in the table after 21 games, just six points above the drop zone.

Interim manager Hiddink said, "We all like to look forward, but don't be unrealistic when you are six points above the relegation line, that is a fact. So, we have to work hard and be very concentrated and gather our points to step up. That's why it was a set back in the 86th minute we got this draw against West Brom, which would have helped us a lot."

The champions face an in-form Everton side on Saturday 16 January at Stamford Bridge, before travelling to the Emirates Stadium to play table-topping Arsenal on Sunday 24 January.

Hiddink also confirmed that playmaker Eden Hazard will miss the game against the Toffees. However, last year's player of the season could make a come back at the Emirates.

"Although he is back on the training pitch, he is not yet fit. We'll make a decision on whether he will be able to face Arsenal next week," Hiddink said.

Chelsea won the Premier League by eight points last season. In December 2015 they sacked Jose Mourinho after a poor start to the current campaign.

More about Chelsea
Chelsea FC Jose Mourinho Premier League