Monday, November 28, 2011

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29.11. (Tue) 20:45 Chelsea - Liverpool


PROBABLE LINEUPS

CHELSEA

Turnbull
Bosingwa, Alex, Ivanovic, Bertrand
Romeu, McEachran, Lampard
Kalou, Torres, Malouda
LIVERPOOL

Reina
Kelly, Coates, Carragher, Agger
Kuyt, Spearing, Lucas, Henderson, Maxi
Carroll
Andre Villas-Boas has a full squad to choose from, with the exception of suspended captain John Terry and long-term injury absentee Michael Essien. The Blues boss is likely to ring the changes though, with the only survivors from Saturday’s encounter with Wolves likely to be Branislav Ivanovic and Oriol Romeu. Fernando Torres could start against his former club, having been only used as a late substitute in the recent defeat to the Reds in the Premier League. Liverpool are unlikely to recall Craig Bellamy, who missed Sunday’s clash with Manchester City following Gary Speed's death. Kenny Dalglish is likely to hand a start to youngsters Martin Kelly and Jay Spearing, while Andy Carroll could get the nod after spending the last two matches on the bench.
DID YOU KNOW?
  • Chelsea have had their worst start to a season since Roman Abramovich took control of the club in 2003.
  • Dalglish (right) is unbeaten against the Blues in 11 games as Liverpool manager.
  • In the last seven seasons, this will be the 30th encounter between the two sides. Chelsea have won 12 and Liverpool 10.
  • The Reds are unbeaten in their last 10 matches in all competitions.
  • Villas-Boas’ men have scored in only two of their last five meetings with Liverpool at Stamford Bridge.
  • Dalglish’s men have won the competition a record seven times, with their last success coming in 2003.
  • The hosts have won the competition four times, once in 2005 with a victory over Liverpool in the final.
Prediction
The recent run of form shown by the two sides suggests that there might only be one winner on the night. However, considering the fact that both will make a number of changes and Liverpool had to face the tough test of Manchester City just 48 hours ago, expect a narrow home win.
Editor's Prediction
Chelsea 2-1 Liverpool