Carlo Ancelotti is taking tonights Champions League match against MSK Zilina as a chance to give some reserves a run out, and rest a few of the big names. Frank Lampard is still injured so won’t be playing, and Didier Drogba starts the season with his usual Champions League ban for being sent of in our last game!
John Terry is deemed to have recovered from his injury and will lead the team out. “John has no problem to play,” confirmed Ancelotti. “He is fit and trained yesterday with no problem. So for this reason he is ready to play tomorrow.”
Yossi Benayoun will replace Lampard, and Daniel Sturridge is given a chance to lead the attack in Drogba’s absence. “Sturridge trained very well last year and he has improved a lot.” Ancelotti continued. “I think it is the time for him to show us his quality. he is fantastic ability, he is quick with the ball and it is time for him to put his power on the pitch for us.
“He has different skills compared to Drogba. I have never seen a striker as quick as he is.”
Ivanovic will take over from Paolo Ferreira at right back, and Zhirkov will be on the left while Ashley Cole is rested. Terry and Alex will hold the fort in the middle of defence.
John Obi Mikel and Essien will play alongside Benayoun, while Anelka and Malouda keep their places on either side of Sturridge in attack.
Although there are a few changes, this team should be strong enough to take care of Zilina, although Ancelotti is not underestimating the Slovakian league leaders.
“Zilina is a good team. I saw the game against Sparta Prague. They played well both games. They have ability up front, so we have to pay attention to them,” he added.
“We are here to win. We have to stay focused. Our aim is to win this group but it will not be easy. For them it is an important game and we have to pay attention to them.”
Chelsea starting line-up tonight: Cech, Ivanovic, Terry, Alex, Zhirkov, Essien, Benayoun, Obi Mikel, Sturridge, Malouda, Anelka.
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