Luiz doubtful for Blues

Luiz: Hamstring strain

Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti has revealed that David Luiz faces a race against time to face Blackpool on Monday.

The Brazilian centre-half suffered a hamstring strain in the Blues' 2-1 victory over Manchester United last time out and is still nursing the knock.

He is now a major doubt for a trip to Bloomfield Road, with Ancelotti admitting that he is likely to be without his big-money January recruit.

The Italian is, however, hopeful on John Obi Mikel, who damaged his knee during the warm-up ahead of Tuesday's crunch clash with United.

"Until now, he's [Luiz] not been able to train," said Ancelotti.

"He [Mikel[ had a scan, but everything was okay. I hope, also, that he can train."

Recovery

Long-term injury victims Yossi Benayoun and Alex are also closing on full fitness, with both expected to be back by the end of March.

On the duo, Ancelotti said: "Benayoun is starting to train outside on the grass, alone, in individual sessions.

"Alex will come back next week and, after that, I think we will check him and take a decision on him then.

"He's very close to recovery."

Intensity

Chelsea will be hoping to consolidate their top-four standing against Blackpool, but Ancelotti admits they cannot afford to take anything for granted against the Premier League's surprise package.

He said: "It's an important game, a difficult game because Blackpool have had fantastic performances at home.

"They beat Tottenham in their last home game, and were 2-0 up against United.

"It's a team who like to play football with intensity and a good pace, attacking football.

"It will not be an easy game, but our moment's good now. We want to maintain continuity in the results."