Stoke make the trip to Stamford Bridge with trepidation after last season’s 7-0 thrashing and having seen the Champions brush aside the Baggies and Wigan by scoring six a piece and yet having to conceded a goal.
Vital Quotes:
Thomas Sorensen told the BBC that it’s all about taking their chances and if we could score first then it’s all to play for.
Chelsea Team News:
The starting eleven will be the same that won 6-0 at Wigan last weekend. The £17m, Brazilian international midfielder, Ramires will make his first appearance for Chelsea from the bench, but Branislav Ivanovic is still injured with a back problem.
Player to watch: Didier Drogba
Picking a Chelsea player to watch is all about sticking a pin into the teamsheet, but Drogba already has three under his belt along with Malouda and Stoke will have to be at their very best today in defence.
Stoke City Team News:
Tony Pulis has rung the changes with the two new signings, Kenwyne Jones and Jon Walters, starting up front at the expense of Ricardo Fuller who drops to the bench. Andy Wilkinson starts in defence to give some strength to counter Ashley Cole. Asmir Begovic is back on the bench after allegedly refusing to play in the midweek cup tie.
Player to watch: Kenwyne Jones
Not the best time for a return to action for Jones. I’m sure he’d rather not be facing the likes of Chelsea as he makes his comeback after only lasting 15 minutes at Wolves before injury curtailed his Stoke debut.
Match Facts & Stats
Ref Watch:
Martin Atkinson
Next Fixtures:
Monday 13th September: Aston Villa (home) kick-off: 8pm
