Skip to content

Chelsea v Liverpool preview

Chelsea boss Claudio Ranieri is set to welcome back Carlo Cudicini and Hernan Crespo for the visit of Liverpool to Stamford Bridge on Wednesday.

Neil Sullivan has deputised for the Italian shot-stopper in the games against Portsmouth and Watford, however, Cudicini has now recovered from the groin strain sustained against Charlton.

John Terry and Wayne Bridge were both rested for the trip to Vicarage Road in the FA Cup and are set to return for The Reds' trip to West London.

Chelsea booked their place in the UEFA Champions League following their end of season 2-1 win over Liverpool last term, and a victory this time around will move The Blues 19 points clear of the Merseysiders.

Michael Owen could make a surprise return to The Reds line-up should he pass a late fitness test.

The England international missed the festive period after suffering a setback in his recovery from a thigh problem.

Reds boss Gerard Houllier is unsure whether Owen will feature on Wednesday saying: "Michael is close to a return but whether it'll be for this game or the next game, I'm not sure."

Owen's absence has handed French youngster Florent Sinama-Pongolle a chance to impress and, while he has grown in stature, he has not cemented his place in the side.

TeamChelseaLiverpool
Games Played1918
Attacking  
Goals Scored3628
Ave Goals per game1.891.56
Shooting Accuracy45%46%
Goals to Shots %15%12%
Passes  
Passes8,6047,045
Pass Completion %81%78%
Defending  
Tackle Success Rate %74%72%
Goals Conceded1621
Ave goals conceded per game0.841.17
Discipline  
Fouls263234
Yellow Cards2829
Red Cards10