Chelsea Fc Thread

[mrbojangles]

Cheers for that buddy

[Seapok]

Not being biased or anything but that was the best Chelsea performance I've seen in years! totally dominated Rosenborg from start to finish and didn't take the foot of the pedal all game! Nice one Avram, more of the same please!!

Rosenborg 0-4 Chelsea

Chelsea cruised into the Champions League knockout stages with an easy win against Rosenborg in Norway.

Didier Drogba set the platform with two close-range finishes inside the first 20 minutes as Avram Grant's side dominated from the start.

Alex added a third before half-time with a low free-kick that somehow crept past Rosenborg keeper Lars Hirschfeld.

Joe Cole rounded off the scoring in the 73rd minute after Michael Essien's shot had been blocked by Hirschfeld.

Drogba had already threatened twice before giving Chelsea the lead after eight minutes.

Ashley Cole's long-range shot was only partially blocked by Hirschfeld, and Drogba pounced on the rebound to lash an unstoppable shot high into the net.

And he got the second Chelsea's blistering opening spell fully deserved after 20 minutes, but much of the credit must go to Shaun Wright-Phillips.

He won a tackle in midfield and embarked on a mazy run before feeding Essien, who scuffed his shot, but once more Drogba was first to react to turn in from close range.

Chelsea were controlling the game with almost embarrassing ease, and it was no surprise when Alex added a third for them five minutes before the interval, his low free-kick from 30 yards somehow squirming past Hirschfeld.

The pattern continued after the break, with Wright-Phillips coming close to adding a fourth after 52 minutes, turning Drogba's pass against the bar with Hirschfeld beaten.

Chelsea keeper Carlo Cudicini finally got some action on a freezing night after 65 minutes when he turned over a rising drive from Marek Sapara.

The fourth was inevitable, and came with 17 minutes left, Joe Cole turning in another rebound when Hirschfeld could only block Essien's shot.

Rosenborg: Hirschfeld, Stoor, Kvarme, Riseth, Dorsin (Basma 85), Skjelbred, Tettey, Traore (Strand 56), Sapara, Iversen, Kone (Konan 63).

Subs Not Used: Hansen, Koppinen, Storflor, Nordvik.

Chelsea: Cudicini, Belletti, Terry, Alex, Ashley Cole, Makelele, Wright-Phillips (Kalou 68), Essien, Lampard (Pizarro 76), Joe Cole, Drogba (Shevchenko 68).

Subs Not Used: Hilario, Obi, Bridge, Ben-Haim.

Goals: Drogba 8, 20, Alex 40, Joe Cole 73.

Att: 21,582

Ref: Olegario Benquerenca (Portugal).

[Seapok]

Chelsea boss Grant hails Drogba

Chelsea boss Avram Grant paid tribute to Didier Drogba after his two-goal show against Rosenborg fired them into the Champions League knockout stage.

Drogba was the star of the 4-0 win in Norway and Grant said: "Many teams cannot live with Didier, we move the ball well so he can play good football.

"We can improve our game but you see that the players want to play positive football. This is our target."

"It's much easier for him when we pass the ball well and create chances."

Grant must ponder how to cope without his main striker when he goes to the African Cup of Nations with the Ivory Coast in January.

He said: "Didier is a very good striker. Even though we win without him, we miss him and want him to play.

"I have two months until he goes. Four of our very important players will not be in the squad for a long time. It is not easy but we cannot change it. We will have to do our best."

Salomon Kalou, Michael Essien and Mikel John Obi will also away at the tournament.

Grant was delighted with the quality of his side's play as they over-ran their Norwegian opponents.

He added: "We played some good football tonight and scored four goals. We had a lot of chances but what is most important is that we qualified for the next round one game before the end and after having dropped two points in the opening round.

"We want to play positive, attacking football and I am very happy with what has happened. We win games, we progress and play better from game to game.

"We are in the next round and in a good position in the league at home. I hope we can continue the process.

"It is a long way until May but Chelsea have never been in the final and this is one of our targets, maybe the main one, because we want to be a big club.

"We want to get to the final and I hope it is this year."

[ThaiPauly]

Well done

[mrbojangles]

Well done

Yeah ditto that. I like all (well nearly all ) English teams to do well in Europe. We'll be there next year

Sven's booked a team holiday in Benidorm

[oldgit]

Not being biased or anything but that was the best Chelsea performance I've seen in years! totally dominated Rosenborg from start to finish and didn't take the foot of the pedal all game! Nice one Avram, more of the same please!!

Rosenborg 0-4 Chelsea

Chelsea cruised into the Champions League knockout stages with an easy win against Rosenborg in Norway.

Didier Drogba set the platform with two close-range finishes inside the first 20 minutes as Avram Grant's side dominated from the start.

Alex added a third before half-time with a low free-kick that somehow crept past Rosenborg keeper Lars Hirschfeld.

Joe Cole rounded off the scoring in the 73rd minute after Michael Essien's shot had been blocked by Hirschfeld.

Drogba had already threatened twice before giving Chelsea the lead after eight minutes.

Ashley Cole's long-range shot was only partially blocked by Hirschfeld, and Drogba pounced on the rebound to lash an unstoppable shot high into the net.

And he got the second Chelsea's blistering opening spell fully deserved after 20 minutes, but much of the credit must go to Shaun Wright-Phillips.

He won a tackle in midfield and embarked on a mazy run before feeding Essien, who scuffed his shot, but once more Drogba was first to react to turn in from close range.

Chelsea were controlling the game with almost embarrassing ease, and it was no surprise when Alex added a third for them five minutes before the interval, his low free-kick from 30 yards somehow squirming past Hirschfeld.

The pattern continued after the break, with Wright-Phillips coming close to adding a fourth after 52 minutes, turning Drogba's pass against the bar with Hirschfeld beaten.

Chelsea keeper Carlo Cudicini finally got some action on a freezing night after 65 minutes when he turned over a rising drive from Marek Sapara.

The fourth was inevitable, and came with 17 minutes left, Joe Cole turning in another rebound when Hirschfeld could only block Essien's shot.

Rosenborg: Hirschfeld, Stoor, Kvarme, Riseth, Dorsin (Basma 85), Skjelbred, Tettey, Traore (Strand 56), Sapara, Iversen, Kone (Konan 63).

Subs Not Used: Hansen, Koppinen, Storflor, Nordvik.

Chelsea: Cudicini, Belletti, Terry, Alex, Ashley Cole, Makelele, Wright-Phillips (Kalou 68), Essien, Lampard (Pizarro 76), Joe Cole, Drogba (Shevchenko 68).

Subs Not Used: Hilario, Obi, Bridge, Ben-Haim.

Goals: Drogba 8, 20, Alex 40, Joe Cole 73.

Att: 21,582

Ref: Olegario Benquerenca (Portugal).

I agree.I thought that the football played by the team,especially the first half hour,was sensational.Joe Cole and Sean Wright-Phillips terrorised the two full backs.Rosenborg did not help their cause,though,by trying to match us and left gaps in midfield when their attacks broke down.

[Seapok]

Chelsea v West Ham

Stamford Bridge

Saturday, 1 December

Kick-off: 1245 GMT

BBC coverage: BBC Sport website, BBC Radio Five Live & highlights on Match of the Day.

BIG-MATCH FACTS

Chelsea are the Premier League's "form" team, as they attempt to take their club record unbeaten home run to an incredible 70 games.

It's back-to-back London derbies for West Ham, who drew 1-1 home to Tottenham last time out. The Hammers have won one of their last 10 Premier League capital clashes; 0-1 away to Arsenal on 7 April.

Chelsea have not lost in 10 London league derbies, since a 2-1 reverse at Tottenham on 5 November 2006, their only defeat in 14 such fixtures.

Avram Grant's club have a 50% win rate against West Ham in the Premier League (12 of 24).

CLUB FORM

CHELSEA

Highest achievable after Saturday's matches: 2nd

Lowest could fall: 6th

1. Undefeated in 13 in all competitions; won 10 and drawn three.

2. Unbeaten in seven Premier League games; won five and drawn two since the 2-0 loss at Manchester United on 23 September.

3. Kept clean sheets in eight Premier League outings; no club can beat that. Also conceded just one goal in 630 minutes (10 and a half hours) of Premier League football.

4. Lost one of 14 league and cup games under Grant; won five, drawn two and lost one of eight league games under the current manager.

5. Top of the Premier League "form" table with 16 points out of a possible 18.

6. The current tally of 28 points after 14 matches (two points per game), is their lowest to this stage in five Premier League seasons.

7. Won 34 and drawn 13 of 47 at home in all competitions since the 1-2 defeat to Barcelona in the Champions League on 22 February 2006. Not lost a league game at the Bridge since the 1-2 reverse to Arsenal on 21 February 2004 (won 51, drawn 18).

8. The three league fixtures before Christmas involve a home clash with Sunderland, another London derby at Arsenal and a trip to Blackburn.

WEST HAM UNITED

Highest achievable after Saturday's matches: 10th

Lowest could fall: 11th

1. Undefeated in six in all competitions; won three and draw three.

2. Unbeaten in five Premier League matches; won two and drawn three since losing 1-0, away to Aston Villa on 6 October.

3. On the joint longest current run of seven games since conceding more than a single goal in a Premier League game; the 3-1 away defeat to Newcastle on 23 September. Chelsea have also gone seven games since shipping more than a single goal in a Premier League fixture.

4. Their Premier League matches have produced just 30 goals (19 for, 11 against); only Liverpool's have yielded less (28).

5. Yet to beat a top half club this season; drawn one and lost three of four against clubs currently in the top 10.

6. Need to score five more goals to total 3,000 in top-flight football.

7. Three short of conceding 5,000 league goals in their history.

8. Already beaten Birmingham (0-1), Reading (0-3) and Derby (0-5) in league games on the road; another victory here would equal the four managed in the whole of last season.

9. Kept clean sheets in four of six league games on the road this season.

10. Their next fixture is away to Blackburn before a home Carling Cup quarter-final against Everton, a home league clash also with Everton and a pre-Christmas visit to Middlesbrough.

KEY PLAYER NOTES

CHELSEA

Didier DROGBA is Chelsea's top scorer with nine goals.

DROGBA is the clubs top marksman in the Premier League, with five.

DROGBA has scored three goals in four appearances against West Ham.

Frank LAMPARD is a hat-trick shy of 100 goals for Chelsea.

DROGBA is a hat-trick short of 50 Premier League goals in Chelsea colours.

If selected:-

Carlo CUDICINI will be making his 200th appearance in a Chelsea goalkeepers' jersey.

LAMPARD will be facing a former club. The 29 year old England international was a West Ham trainee, making 187 appearances (148 in the league) and scoring 37 goals (23 league) for them before his £11m move to Stamford Bridge in June 2001.

JOE COLE will also will be facing former team mates. The 26 year old England international similarly started his career with the Hammers, making 149 appearances (126 in the league) and scoring 13 goals (10 league) before his £6.6m move across the capital in August 2003.

Suspended:-

Michael ESSIEN (three matches)

WEST HAM UNITED

Craig BELLAMY and Lee BOWYER are West Ham's joint top scorers with four goals each.

BOWYER is the Hammers' top Premier League marksmen as all four of his goals were in the league.

Matthew UPSON and Robert GREEN are the only remaining players to have been on the field for every minute of every one of West Ham's Premier League matches this season.

BOWYER is a double shy of 50 career Premier League goals (Leeds, Newcastle and West Ham).

If selected:-

Henri CAMARA will be making his 100th career Premier League appearance (Wolves, Southampton, Wigan and West Ham).

CARLTON COLE will be facing the club where he started his professional career. The 24 year old forward made 32 appearances (25 in the league) and scored eight goals (four league) before signing for the Hammers in July 2006.

Scott PARKER will be playing against a former club. The 27 year old England international made 28 appearances (15 in the league) and scored one league goal for Chelsea between January 2004 and June 2005.

If on the field from the outset:-

James COLLINS will be making his 100th career club start (Cardiff and West Ham).

HEAD TO HEAD

Chelsea have scored a total of 12 goals in their four meetings with West Ham over the last two seasons. They're chasing a third successive victory over the Eastenders at the Bridge.

The Hammers' only Premier League maximum in six trips across the capital was on 28 September 2002 by the odd goal in five. Paulo Di Canio scored a double and Jermain Defoe netted the other.

West Ham are one of eight clubs doubled by Chelsea last season, and Chelsea were the last of six clubs to complete the double over West Ham last term.

Home and away

League (inc PL): Chelsea 29 wins, West Ham 34, Draws 15

Prem: Chelsea 12 wins, West Ham 9, Draws 3

at Chelsea only

League (inc PL): Chelsea 19 wins, West Ham 12, Draws 8

Prem: Chelsea 7 wins, West Ham 4, Draws 1

LAST SEASON'S CORRESPONDING GAME

Chelsea 1-0 West Ham United

18 November 2006 - Ref: Mike Dean

Chelsea scorer: Geremi 22

REFEREE

Howard Webb (Yorkshire)

[Seapok]

Chelsea 1-0 West Ham

Joe Cole's late winner settled a scrappy encounter against former club West Ham and kept Chelsea in touch with the Premier League pace-setters.

Cole raced on to Didier Drogba's header after 76 minutes and rounded West Ham keeper Robert Green to score as the visitors appealed in vain for offside.

It was the decisive moment in an ill-tempered game littered with stoppages at Stamford Bridge.

Nolberto Solano came close for West Ham, but Chelsea claimed the points.

The first half was an utterly wretched affair, characterised by petty fouls, heavy challenges and some obvious score-settling on the part of players from both sides.

What the game did not have - until the goal - was genuine quality, apart from one curling effort from Drogba that drifted just wide and a Solano lob that landed on top of the Chelsea net.

The ill-feeling started when Luis Boa Morte aimed a needless kick at Chelsea keeper Carlo Cudicini - with England captain John Terry almost inevitably getting involved in the ensuing fracas.

Mikel Jon Obi was then booked for a wild tackle on Scott Parker, and he was swiftly joined by Salomon Kalou after he lunged at Boa Morte on the touchline.

West Ham's Parker was lucky not be cautioned by referee Howard Webb for a couple of late challenges, while Boa Morte's persistent offending was finally punished seconds before the break for a foul on Mikel.

The second half had to be better, and Chelsea almost made the perfect start when Wayne Bridge played in Steve Sidwell, but his goal-bound drive was blocked by Matthew Upson.

West Ham were having success in keeping Chelsea at arm's length, and carved out a chance of their own on the hour, but Boa Morte's shot was partially blocked by Terry and Cudicini saved comfortably.

As the game opened up, West Ham keeper Robert Green did well to claw away Cole's cross with Drogba waiting to pounce.

And it was Cole who finally broke the deadlock with 14 minutes left, although West Ham were left complaining bitterly as Chelsea celebrated.

West Ham felt Cole was offside as he raced on to Drogba's header, but the flag stayed down as he showed great composure to round Green and finish into the top corner.

Chelsea: Cudicini, Belletti, Alex, Terry, Bridge, Sidwell (Wright-Phillips 66), Obi, Lampard, Kalou, Drogba, Joe Cole (Makelele 89).

Subs Not Used: Hilario, Shevchenko, Ben-Haim.

Booked: Obi, Kalou, Belletti, Lampard, Terry.

Goals: Joe Cole 76.

West Ham: Green, Neill, Gabbidon, Upson, McCartney, Solano (Ljungberg 74), Parker (Spector 79), Mullins, Etherington (Ashton 79), Boa Morte, Cole.

Subs Not Used: Wright, Collins.

Booked: Etherington, Solano, Boa Morte.

Att: 41,830

Ref: Howard Webb (S Yorkshire).

[oldgit]

Chelsea 1-0 West Ham

Joe Cole's late winner settled a scrappy encounter against former club West Ham and kept Chelsea in touch with the Premier League pace-setters.

Cole raced on to Didier Drogba's header after 76 minutes and rounded West Ham keeper Robert Green to score as the visitors appealed in vain for offside.

It was the decisive moment in an ill-tempered game littered with stoppages at Stamford Bridge.

Nolberto Solano came close for West Ham, but Chelsea claimed the points.

The first half was an utterly wretched affair, characterised by petty fouls, heavy challenges and some obvious score-settling on the part of players from both sides.

What the game did not have - until the goal - was genuine quality, apart from one curling effort from Drogba that drifted just wide and a Solano lob that landed on top of the Chelsea net.

The ill-feeling started when Luis Boa Morte aimed a needless kick at Chelsea keeper Carlo Cudicini - with England captain John Terry almost inevitably getting involved in the ensuing fracas.

Mikel Jon Obi was then booked for a wild tackle on Scott Parker, and he was swiftly joined by Salomon Kalou after he lunged at Boa Morte on the touchline.

West Ham's Parker was lucky not be cautioned by referee Howard Webb for a couple of late challenges, while Boa Morte's persistent offending was finally punished seconds before the break for a foul on Mikel.

The second half had to be better, and Chelsea almost made the perfect start when Wayne Bridge played in Steve Sidwell, but his goal-bound drive was blocked by Matthew Upson.

West Ham were having success in keeping Chelsea at arm's length, and carved out a chance of their own on the hour, but Boa Morte's shot was partially blocked by Terry and Cudicini saved comfortably.

As the game opened up, West Ham keeper Robert Green did well to claw away Cole's cross with Drogba waiting to pounce.

And it was Cole who finally broke the deadlock with 14 minutes left, although West Ham were left complaining bitterly as Chelsea celebrated.

West Ham felt Cole was offside as he raced on to Drogba's header, but the flag stayed down as he showed great composure to round Green and finish into the top corner.

Chelsea: Cudicini, Belletti, Alex, Terry, Bridge, Sidwell (Wright-Phillips 66), Obi, Lampard, Kalou, Drogba, Joe Cole (Makelele 89).

Subs Not Used: Hilario, Shevchenko, Ben-Haim.

Booked: Obi, Kalou, Belletti, Lampard, Terry.

Goals: Joe Cole 76.

West Ham: Green, Neill, Gabbidon, Upson, McCartney, Solano (Ljungberg 74), Parker (Spector 79), Mullins, Etherington (Ashton 79), Boa Morte, Cole.

Subs Not Used: Wright, Collins.

Booked: Etherington, Solano, Boa Morte.

Att: 41,830

Ref: Howard Webb (S Yorkshire).

I thought the team looked jaded after their trip to the Arctic Circle on Wednesday,although West Ham made it difficult for us by closing down at every oppurtunity.I cant see what the debate is over whether Joe Cole was offside or not.He was level and I thought it was a good decision by the referees assistant.Its alright for the T.V.'judges to paw over the incident a dozen times before they come to a conclusion but the bloke on the line has a split second to make a decision.Incidently, when was the last time we scored from a Lampard corner?I cant remember.He doesnt seem to whip them in with any venom.Kalou,one corner-one goal(against Everton).Give him the job because ultimately ,it could cost us.

[Seapok]

I thought the team looked jaded after their trip to the Arctic Circle on Wednesday,although West Ham made it difficult for us by closing down at every oppurtunity.I cant see what the debate is over whether Joe Cole was offside or not.He was level and I thought it was a good decision by the referees assistant.Its alright for the T.V.'judges to paw over the incident a dozen times before they come to a conclusion but the bloke on the line has a split second to make a decision.Incidently, when was the last time we scored from a Lampard corner?I cant remember.He doesnt seem to whip them in with any venom.Kalou,one corner-one goal(against Everton).Give him the job because ultimately ,it could cost us.

Yeah good point you old git! haha Lamps hasn't really had a good year in general, maybe after the 1st 2 gut busting season's he had has a massive toll on him, I know he doesn't like to be rested but every athlete needs a break from time to time.

Joe Cole's goal was boarder line but the pundits even say it should always go in the attackers favour and lucky for us it did. John Obi Mikel was also a lucky boy not to get sent off for that tackle, he needs to grow up a bit if he wants to become a great for the mighty blues. I saw Franco Zola play a charity game at the weekend also, that man would still get into most teams in the Premiership, a true Legend who will never lose his ability.

[oldgit]

Yeah good point you old git! haha Lamps hasn't really had a good year in general, maybe after the 1st 2 gut busting season's he had has a massive toll on him, I know he doesn't like to be rested but every athlete needs a break from time to time.

Joe Cole's goal was boarder line but the pundits even say it should always go in the attackers favour and lucky for us it did. John Obi Mikel was also a lucky boy not to get sent off for that tackle, he needs to grow up a bit if he wants to become a great for the mighty blues. I saw Franco Zola play a charity game at the weekend also, that man would still get into most teams in the Premiership, a true Legend who will never lose his ability.

Not so much of the old!I dont know about you,mate,but I always reckon its not how old a player is but how many years hes played in the Premiership and Frank has done some years,always at breakneck pace.You are dead right about Obi Mikel.A terrific talent but needs to lay off a bit before committing himself to a tackle.Where did you see Franco play?In Thailand?You lucky git!Personally,I cant wait for him to get back at the Bridge in some capacity,who knows,managerial maybe.He was the most intelligent player I ever saw in a Chelsea shirt and was great on AND off the pitch.Incidently,I am a London boy too(Lambeth born)

[Seapok]

No I saw Zola play in a charity game on tv, it was played in the City of Manchester stadium, the conditions were terrible but Franco seemed to be the only player that shone, his fellow (ex) pro's were raving about the little magicians pace and technic. I was watching Chelsea tv the other day and there was some talk of trying to get him back to Chelsea in a Ambassador role. True gent, love to meet him in person.

I know Lambeth, I'm just down the road, near Clapham Junction Station.

[Seapok]

Malouda 'happy' at Chelsea

Chelsea winger Florent Malouda has moved quickly to reassure fans he is happy at the club.

His comments come after media reports earlier this week suggested he was unhappy at the club.

But Malouda says this could not be further from the truth and insists he is enjoying his life at Chelsea.

Speaking to Chelsea TV, the Frenchman, who moved to Stamford Bridge from Lyon for £13million in July, said: "I just want the fans to know that what I saw in the paper this morning is exactly the contrary to what I said to the French paper and the French people.

"One thing I tried to speak about is that I achieved a good adaptation in my new club, and I was speaking about London life.

"My family and kids are very happy here, and when I saw that this morning I was very disappointed.

"I have nothing more to add or to say about this, this is not true, and I just want the Chelsea fans to know that I really enjoy my new life."

Malouda, who is currently out with a knee injury, added: "The way they did it was not fair. I don't know why they tried to make me appear like somebody who is not happy here.

"I repeat I chose to come here, and everybody here is happy with what I've done."

His comments setting the record straight come after he was reported to have branded English football 'brainless' and describing training sessions as 'terrifying'.

Meanwhile, Chelsea midfielder Michael Ballack played 80 minutes in a reserve team win over Southend, as he continues on his road to recovery.

The German has been out of action with ankle problems since April and has undergone two operations.

[oldgit]

Malouda 'happy' at Chelsea

Chelsea winger Florent Malouda has moved quickly to reassure fans he is happy at the club.

His comments come after media reports earlier this week suggested he was unhappy at the club.

But Malouda says this could not be further from the truth and insists he is enjoying his life at Chelsea.

Speaking to Chelsea TV, the Frenchman, who moved to Stamford Bridge from Lyon for £13million in July, said: "I just want the fans to know that what I saw in the paper this morning is exactly the contrary to what I said to the French paper and the French people.

"One thing I tried to speak about is that I achieved a good adaptation in my new club, and I was speaking about London life.

"My family and kids are very happy here, and when I saw that this morning I was very disappointed.

"I have nothing more to add or to say about this, this is not true, and I just want the Chelsea fans to know that I really enjoy my new life."

Malouda, who is currently out with a knee injury, added: "The way they did it was not fair. I don't know why they tried to make me appear like somebody who is not happy here.

"I repeat I chose to come here, and everybody here is happy with what I've done."

His comments setting the record straight come after he was reported to have branded English football 'brainless' and describing training sessions as 'terrifying'.

Meanwhile, Chelsea midfielder Michael Ballack played 80 minutes in a reserve team win over Southend, as he continues on his road to recovery.

The German has been out of action with ankle problems since April and has undergone two operations.

I saw the Malouda interview on Chelsea T.V. where he refuted statements made on his behalf.He seemed pretty sincere about it which is good because we need his presence when Kalou and company dissappear to the African Nations Cup.I rate him highly. He's got good close control and pace over the first 10 yards.The only problem I can see now,other than settling in,is his tendency too show to much of the ball to the opposing defender.This is quite common in players coming from Holland,France and Germany where the tackling isn't as quick and robust as the EPL.He'll get used to it,though.Great to see Ballack playing again.Now there's someone we need when Obi Mikel goes to Africa.

[Seapok]

Chelsea v Sunderland

Stamford Bridge

Saturday, 8 December

Kick-off: 1500 GMT

BBC coverage: BBC Sport website, BBC Radio Five Live & highlights on Match of the Day. Featured game on Score and Final Score.

Chelsea striker Didier Drogba (knee) is a major doubt and keeper Petr Cech (calf) will not play.

Florent Malouda (knee) is a doubt, while Michael Essien is suspended with Paulo Ferreira, Ricardo Carvalho and Michael Ballack still sidelined.

Sunderland winger Carlos Edwards is out after suffering a broken leg in his side's win over Derby last week.

Nyron Nosworthy (hamstring), Kieran Richardson (back) and Russell Anderson (ankle) remain on the sidelines.

Chelsea (from): Cudicini, Hilario, Belletti, Terry, Alex, Ben-Haim, Lampard, A Cole, Bridge, J Cole, Obi, Sidwell, Kalou, Shevchenko, Pizarro, Wright-Phillips, Makelele, Drogba.

Sunderland (from): Gordon, Ward, McShane, Halford, Harte, Higginbotham, Collins, Yorke, Etuhu, Miller, Leadbitter, Wallace, Whitehead, Kavanagh, O'Donovan, Jones, Chopra, Connolly, Murphy, Stokes, Cole.

Chelsea manager Avram Grant:

"We are keeping an eye on the situation (regarding Didier Drogba) but we don't know yet.

"We will know better in the next few days. We are doing everything with him.

"In the last one or two months he has had a problem but he always pushed to play and is pushing to play even now. If he feels good he will play."

Sunderland boss Roy Keane:

"We will be going out and people will be thinking how much are we going to lose by.

"But if I was some of our lads I would be rubbing my hands. We are going to be tested by top players.

"The bottom line is you can only play 11 against 11 and all you can ask as a manager is 100% from your players."

BIG-MATCH FACTS

The Premier League's "form" team Chelsea have their sights set on a top two place, while victory for Sunderland could see them rise from the relegation zone to the top 12 in two matches.

Chelsea are unbeaten at home in the Premier League; Sunderland yet to win away. The visitors have lost their last four on the road culminating in the 7-1 hammering at Everton.

The Londoners have won three times as many league games as the Wearsiders so far this season (nine to three), and Sunderland have lost four times as many as the former champions (eight to two).

Sunderland enjoyed a last-ditch victory over Paul Jewell's Derby last time out, but have not recorded back-to-back victories in 110 Premier League outings, since Boxing Day 2002.

Avram Grant has guided Chelsea to 11 wins in his 15 games in charge (all competitions), and has overseen the continuation of a club record unbeaten home league run that now stands at an incredible 70 games.

Chelsea have won five of the six home Premier League meetings with Sunderland, including the last three.

CLUB FORM

CHELSEA

1. Won the last three and undefeated in 14 in all competitions; won 11 and drawn three since their only loss in 17.

2. Unbeaten in eight Premier League games; won six and drawn two since the 2-0 loss at Manchester United on 23 September.

3. Kept clean sheets in nine Premier League outings this season; no club can beat that, although Liverpool and Manchester United can match it.

4. Won six, drawn two and lost one of the nine league games under Avram Grant.

5. Their league games have produced just 31 goals (22 for and nine against); at 2.09, it's the lowest goals per game average in the Premier League.

6. The current tally of 31 points after 15 games is their worst start in five years.

7. Yet to lose to a lower half club; won six and drawn one of their seven fixtures against clubs currently in the bottom 10.

8. Won 35 and drawn 13 of 48 at home in all competitions since the 1-2 defeat to Barcelona in the Champions League on 22 February 2006. Not lost a league game at the Bridge since the 1-2 reverse to Arsenal on 21 February 2004 (won 52, drawn 18).

9. Not lost in 86 domestic matches in front of the home faithful if penalty shoot-outs are excluded, since the defeat to Arsenal over 45 months ago.

10. After Tuesday's Champions League final group match, home to Valencia, the pre-Christmas Premier League programme involves a London derby at Arsenal and a trip to Blackburn. In between, there's a Carling Cup quarter-final, home to Liverpool.

SUNDERLAND

1. Last Saturday's 1-0 home win over Derby was not only their first clean sheet since the opening day of the season, it also ended an eight-match winless sequence in the Premier League.

2. Last registered successive Premier League victories on 22 and 26 December 2002, against Everton (1-0, h) and Blackburn (0-3 a) respectively.

3. Scored more goals than any other club in the last five minutes of Premier League matches this term; six.

4. Lost all seven fixtures against top half clubs this season.

5. Won three of 15 Premier League games under Roy Keane; a 20% winning return. Also, need a victory to gain in excess of 100 league points under Keane: they're on 98 at present.

6. The current total of 13 points is eight more than they had to this same stage of the last relegation season of 2005-06, but one less than were accrued after the first 15 games of the previous relegation campaign of 2002-03.

7. One of seven clubs still searching for a first away win in this Premier League season. Without a league maximum in eight on the road, and lost the last four against Arsenal, West Ham, Manchester City and Everton.

8. Not won in 17 away Premier League matches; gaining just four points from a possible 51 since the 0-1 victory at West Brom on 21 January 2006 - their only win in 23 on the road in this league.

9. Lost the last 12 Premier League visits to London, and not won in 20 since defeating Chelsea 2-4 on 17 March 2001.

10. A home match with Aston Villa and a trip to Reading are scheduled after this and before Christmas.

KEY PLAYER NOTES

CHELSEA

Didier DROGBA is Chelsea's top scorer with nine goals.

DROGBA is the clubs top marksman in the Premier League, with five.

Frank LAMPARD is a hat-trick shy of 100 goals for Chelsea.

DROGBA is a hat-trick short of 50 Premier League goals in Chelsea colours.

If selected:-

John TERRY will be playing the day after turning 27.

Suspended:-

Michael ESSIEN (two matches)

SUNDERLAND

Kenwyne JONES is Sunderland's top scorer with four Premier League goals.

Michael CHOPRA is a hat-trick shy of 50 career league goals (Newcastle, Watford, Barnsley, Cardiff and Sunderland).

Last season's top scorer David CONNOLLY needs one goal to total 100 in his league career (Watford, Wolves, Wimbledon, West Ham, Leicester, Wigan and Sunderland).

If selected:-

Greg HALFORD will be playing on his 23rd birthday.

HEAD TO HEAD

Sunderland's only Premier League points at Stamford Bridge came from a 2-4 victory on 17 March 2001, when Peter Reid's side twice came from behind and won with a double from Don Hutchison and goals from Gavin McCann and Kevin Phillips.

Chelsea have not conceded one goal in winning the last three home Premier League matches against Sunderland with an aggregate of 9-0. They have kept clean sheets in their last four home victories over them.

Home and away

League (inc PL): Chelsea 45 wins, Sunderland 35, Draws 20

Prem: Chelsea 7 wins, Sunderland 4, Draws 1

at Chelsea only

League (inc PL): Chelsea 32 wins, Sunderland 7, Draws 11

Prem: Chelsea 5 wins, Sunderland 1, Draws 0

REFEREE

Peter Walton (Northamptonshire)

[delboy]

I'm just down the road, near Clapham Junction Station.

Ah memories, memories. I was born and bred and lived the first 35 years of my life between Princes Head and the Latchmere. Saturday mornings were often spent shopping "up the junction" at Arding & Hobbs. Saturday afternoons were, of course, spent at the Bridge watching the first team if they were at home, or the reserves if they were away.

My father was a lifelong supporter and he took me along to my first first team match in 1954, and I've been hooked ever since. I had a season ticket from 1963-1989 and travelled to all the away matches from the mid 1960s to the mid 80's.

The last time I was at the Bridge was October 1989, just before I emigrated to the LOS. I saw them in 1997 when they played in Bangkok and, of course, follow every match on TV and on the Chelsea Chat Line. Nothing like being at the match, though.

Thanks for stimulating the old memory cells.

[Sunderland]

Sunderland 2 Chelsea 0 ......... party on!!

[Seapok]

Sorry mate (Sunderland), I think you have got your wires crossed!!

Chelsea 2-0 Sunderland

Goals from Andriy Shevchenko and Frank Lampard helped Chelsea see off a hard-working Sunderland.

The unmarked Shevchenko stretched to head home Salomon Kalou's cross from close in for Chelsea's first.

The Black Cats worked tirelessly to keep Chelsea at bay in the second half but failed to trouble Carlo Cudicini.

Lampard made the game safe from the spot after Danny Higginbotham had tugged Alex's shirt, before Liam Miller saw red for a push on Claudio Pizarro.

Chelsea will be steeling themselves for a spate of bruising encounters over Christmas and this flattening of one of the Premier League's featherweights moved them closer to pacesetters Arsenal and Manchester United.

But the Blues will go through a key part of the season without their talismanic striker Didier Drogba, who underwent a knee operation earlier on Saturday.

The Ivory Coast forward boasts more goals this season than Saturday's front two Kalou and Shevchenko put together.

But the former came close to adding to his three league goals when he deflected Joe Cole's corner onto the bar after five minutes.

And just 15 minutes later, the Ivorian picked out his unmarked strike partner Shevchenko who dived to head home from five yards.

The hosts deserved more from a first half that they completely dominated.

Black Cats boss Roy Keane indicated before the game that he was willing to "park the bus" in front of his side's goal and Kenwyne Jones was isolated up front, feeding on scraps and mistakes.

Cudicini's only test of the first half was to gather Jones' bobbling low drive, while Darren Ward, again keeping Craig Gordon out of the side, was regularly peppered with crosses and half chances.

As the rain lashed down in the second half, Chelsea poured forward, swamping the visitors' defence and breaking up sporadic counter-attacks.

Sunderland worked hard to limit the home side's clear-cut chances, with Paul McShane and Higginbotham tirelessly chasing down runs and blocking shots.

And as their confidence grew, Jones became more involved and he glanced a header wide from a tight angle.

Halford had a long range effort comfortably saved by Cudicini and substitute Daryl Murphy flashed an effort wide from 25 yards.

But when Higginbotham pulled Alex's shirt inside the box, Lampard drilled home the penalty to put Chelsea out of sight.

Miller's late dismissal for pushing Pizarro just yards from the referee completed Keane's miserable afternoon.

Chelsea boss Avram Grant:

"We dominated the match but we could not kill the game off as early as we would have liked.

"It was not easy to play against Sunderland because they defended cleverly with a lot of men.

"It was a very mature performance because we looked for opportunities to find the second goal which we got in the second half with a penalty."

Sunderland boss Roy Keane:

"We weren't too bad and we did some good things but the sore point is the two goals we gave away.

"It was fairly poor defending for the first as we didn't stop the cross coming in and a striker like Andriy Shevchenko won't miss from there.

"When it's 1-0 you're in with a chance but the second goal killed the game."

Chelsea: Cudicini, Belletti, Alex, Terry, Ashley Cole, Wright-Phillips, Obi, Lampard, Joe Cole (Sidwell 85), Kalou (Pizarro 66), Shevchenko.

Subs Not Used: Hilario, Bridge, Ben-Haim.

Goals: Shevchenko 23, Lampard 75 pen.

Sunderland: Ward, Halford, McShane, Higginbotham, Collins, Miller, Leadbitter (Stokes 70), Etuhu, Whitehead, Wallace, Jones (Murphy 67).

Subs Not Used: Gordon, Yorke, Cole.

Sent Off: Miller (88).

Booked: Wallace.

Att: 41,707

Ref: Peter Walton (Northamptonshire).

[Sunderland]

Chelsea conspiracy ... I saw Sunderland win 2-0.

[oldgit]

Chelsea conspiracy ... I saw Sunderland win 2-0.

You'll be blaming the Taliban next.2-0 to the Blues.

[oldgit]

I'm just down the road, near Clapham Junction Station.

Ah memories, memories. I was born and bred and lived the first 35 years of my life between Princes Head and the Latchmere. Saturday mornings were often spent shopping "up the junction" at Arding & Hobbs. Saturday afternoons were, of course, spent at the Bridge watching the first team if they were at home, or the reserves if they were away.

My father was a lifelong supporter and he took me along to my first first team match in 1954, and I've been hooked ever since. I had a season ticket from 1963-1989 and travelled to all the away matches from the mid 1960s to the mid 80's.

The last time I was at the Bridge was October 1989, just before I emigrated to the LOS. I saw them in 1997 when they played in Bangkok and, of course, follow every match on TV and on the Chelsea Chat Line. Nothing like being at the match, though.

Thanks for stimulating the old memory cells.

Until I was 9 years old,I lived off Wandsworth Rd.(Vauxhall end) and vividly remember, along with THOUSANDS of other supporters,walking to the ground over Battersea Bridge with my dad and uncles,everybody suited and booted.It was the highlight of the week for me.I saw Johnny Harris lift the League Championship trophy in 1955 after beating Sheffield Wednesday 3-0.Ah memories indeed.Cloth caps,wooden rattles,jumpers for goalposts

[Seapok]

I'm just down the road, near Clapham Junction Station.

Ah memories, memories. I was born and bred and lived the first 35 years of my life between Princes Head and the Latchmere. Saturday mornings were often spent shopping "up the junction" at Arding & Hobbs. Saturday afternoons were, of course, spent at the Bridge watching the first team if they were at home, or the reserves if they were away.

My father was a lifelong supporter and he took me along to my first first team match in 1954, and I've been hooked ever since. I had a season ticket from 1963-1989 and travelled to all the away matches from the mid 1960s to the mid 80's.

The last time I was at the Bridge was October 1989, just before I emigrated to the LOS. I saw them in 1997 when they played in Bangkok and, of course, follow every match on TV and on the Chelsea Chat Line. Nothing like being at the match, though.

Thanks for stimulating the old memory cells.

I've lived around the Battersea area most of my live, things have changed a lot since my 89 my friend not as much as the Bridge though, you wouldn't believe your eyeballs if you went down there now, although I'm sure you have seen it many times on TV and how much it has improved, my first game was in 86, I went to see us lose 1-4 to Oxford Utd, not a great start! haha. So why Thailand? wasn't a very popular choice back in day, for non-backpackers anyway.

[Seapok]

Tonight was a hard game to watch, very cold down the Bridge, needed a few goals to keep the cockles warm!

Chelsea 0-0 Valencia

Chelsea dominated their final Champions League group game against Valencia - but missed a host of chances and were denied by the woodwork.

Avram Grant's side had already topped their group, but should have ended with a resounding victory.

Valencia keeper Santiago Canizares saved well from Frank Lampard, Andriy Shevchenko and Claudio Pizarro.

Pizarro and Joe Cole also hit the post, while Salomon Kalou struck the bar from only six yards after the break.

Chelsea boss Grant shuffled his side ahead of Sunday's meeting with Arsenal - but they still exerted total superiority against a desperately poor Valencia team.

Shevchenko had a shot saved by Canizares after three minutes and captain John Terry headed the resulting corner just off target.

The veteran keeper then saved brilliantly from Lampard's powerful effort as Chelsea laid siege to the Valencia goal in the early stages.

Valencia's only serious threat came three minutes before the interval, when David Silva played in David Villa, but Petr Cech saved well at his near post.

There was still time for Shevchenko and Pizarro - making a rare start - to test the busy Canizares, but Chelsea had failed to turn their superiority into goals.

Grant removed Lampard from the action after 61 minutes, presumably to ensure he was rested ahead of the game at The Emirates on Sunday.

Pizarro had the chance to make his mark four minutes later when Wayne Bridge crossed from the left-flank, but his side-footed effort was timid and Canizares saved.

Kalou somehow contrived to miss the best chance of the game with 17 minutes left, hitting the bar from six yards after Pizarro headed Cole's free-kick across the face of goal.

Pizarro then struck the outside of the post as Chelsea continued to lack a cutting edge without the injured Didier Drogba.

How Chelsea had failed to score was a mystery, and the woodwork was rattling again after 83 minutes when Cole's 20-yard shot was turned on to an upright by Canizares.

Chelsea boss Avram Grant:

"We want to be in the final. This is our target for the next years, but we want to do it this year.

"It was not important for qualification here but we wanted to play well and it was great football.

"We deserved 5-0 at least in this game. It is a good feeling to finish top of the group."

Valencia coach Ronald Koeman:

"I do take some positives from the game. In the last couple of games we haven't conceded. It is important to give some security to our defence.

"We had problems in attack but you have to remember we were playing a big side who haven't conceded many goals."

Chelsea: Cech, Ferreira (Belletti 71), Ben-Haim, Terry, Bridge, Wright-Phillips, Essien, Lampard (Joe Cole 62), Kalou, Pizarro, Shevchenko (Makelele 46).

Subs Not Used: Cudicini, Sidwell, Obi, Alex.

Valencia: Canizares, Miguel (Fernandes 64), Albiol, Helguera, Moretti, Sunny, Marchena, Silva, Villa (Arizmendi 50), Morientes, Vicente (Mata 74).Subs Not Used: Mora, Zigic, Lomban, Montoro.

Booked: Canizares.

Att: 41,139

Ref: Grzegorz Gilewski (Poland).

[oldgit]

Tonight was a hard game to watch, very cold down the Bridge, needed a few goals to keep the cockles warm!

Chelsea 0-0 Valencia

Chelsea dominated their final Champions League group game against Valencia - but missed a host of chances and were denied by the woodwork.

Avram Grant's side had already topped their group, but should have ended with a resounding victory.

Valencia keeper Santiago Canizares saved well from Frank Lampard, Andriy Shevchenko and Claudio Pizarro.

Pizarro and Joe Cole also hit the post, while Salomon Kalou struck the bar from only six yards after the break.

Chelsea boss Grant shuffled his side ahead of Sunday's meeting with Arsenal - but they still exerted total superiority against a desperately poor Valencia team.

Shevchenko had a shot saved by Canizares after three minutes and captain John Terry headed the resulting corner just off target.

The veteran keeper then saved brilliantly from Lampard's powerful effort as Chelsea laid siege to the Valencia goal in the early stages.

Valencia's only serious threat came three minutes before the interval, when David Silva played in David Villa, but Petr Cech saved well at his near post.

There was still time for Shevchenko and Pizarro - making a rare start - to test the busy Canizares, but Chelsea had failed to turn their superiority into goals.

Grant removed Lampard from the action after 61 minutes, presumably to ensure he was rested ahead of the game at The Emirates on Sunday.

Pizarro had the chance to make his mark four minutes later when Wayne Bridge crossed from the left-flank, but his side-footed effort was timid and Canizares saved.

Kalou somehow contrived to miss the best chance of the game with 17 minutes left, hitting the bar from six yards after Pizarro headed Cole's free-kick across the face of goal.

Pizarro then struck the outside of the post as Chelsea continued to lack a cutting edge without the injured Didier Drogba.

How Chelsea had failed to score was a mystery, and the woodwork was rattling again after 83 minutes when Cole's 20-yard shot was turned on to an upright by Canizares.

Chelsea boss Avram Grant:

"We want to be in the final. This is our target for the next years, but we want to do it this year.

"It was not important for qualification here but we wanted to play well and it was great football.

"We deserved 5-0 at least in this game. It is a good feeling to finish top of the group."

Valencia coach Ronald Koeman:

"I do take some positives from the game. In the last couple of games we haven't conceded. It is important to give some security to our defence.

"We had problems in attack but you have to remember we were playing a big side who haven't conceded many goals."

Chelsea: Cech, Ferreira (Belletti 71), Ben-Haim, Terry, Bridge, Wright-Phillips, Essien, Lampard (Joe Cole 62), Kalou, Pizarro, Shevchenko (Makelele 46).

Subs Not Used: Cudicini, Sidwell, Obi, Alex.

Valencia: Canizares, Miguel (Fernandes 64), Albiol, Helguera, Moretti, Sunny, Marchena, Silva, Villa (Arizmendi 50), Morientes, Vicente (Mata 74).Subs Not Used: Mora, Zigic, Lomban, Montoro.

Booked: Canizares.

Att: 41,139

Ref: Grzegorz Gilewski (Poland).

Couldn't see the game live in Thailand so I had to suffer Liverpool for 50 mins.When the 3rd. goal went in,I'd had enough.Sounds like Chelsea should have had a shedful of goals.Slightly off topic,Franco Zola has given his backing to Capello for the England job,with Franco as a possible assistant.Now,wouldn't that be interesting.

[delboy]

I've lived around the Battersea area most of my live, things have changed a lot since my 89 my friend not as much as the Bridge though, you wouldn't believe your eyeballs if you went down there now, although I'm sure you have seen it many times on TV and how much it has improved, my first game was in 86, I went to see us lose 1-4 to Oxford Utd, not a great start! haha. So why Thailand? wasn't a very popular choice back in day, for non-backpackers anyway.

I married a Thai girl in 1983 and she was a regular at the Bridge with me, we had 2 season tickets in the old West Stand and we often went to the away matches.

I took a redundancy package in 1989 and decided to take the money and get a life in the sun. I struggled with no satellite TV, making do with the Saturday sports programme on BBC World Service radio to keep in touch, but then live football and the internet appeared and things are a lot better now. Still miss freezing me toes off watching Chelsea play Bury away in the League Cup on a Wednesday night followed by a cold train journey home, a couple of hours sleep, and back to work. Strange world ain't it.

Still living with my wife and she's nearly as mad on the Blues as I am. She watches all the matches on the box even the European matches etc at 2.45am.

[Seapok]

Chelsea extend Grant's contract

Chelsea boss Avram Grant has signed a four-year contract at Stamford Bridge.

Grant, 52, took over as Chelsea boss in September in the wake of Jose Mourinho's departure.

The former Israel coach lost his opening match at Manchester United, but has since guided the Blues to a 16-match unbeaten run.

Chelsea lie third in the Premier League, three points behind leaders Arsenal and have qualified for the second round of the Champions League.

It had been widely thought that Grant was merely placed in charge at Chelsea until the club identified and secured its preferred manager.

Henk ten Cate arrived at Stamford Bridge from Ajax in October amid speculation he would be in line to take over from Grant.

And Guus Hiddink was heavily linked with the Chelsea manager's job before he signed a new contract to extend his stay as Russia coach.

But chief executive Peter Kenyon said in November "there is no time limit (on a decision over Grant) because we are talking about Chelsea being successful".

And the Chelsea's fine run of form under Grant has led to the Blues board tying the Israeli down to a long-term contract.

He became embroiled in a row over his coaching qualifications with Grant yet to receive his Uefa Pro License which is normally required in European competition.

But Uefa insisted it had no plans to ban him from coaching.

Grant first came to England in 2006, when he was appointed technical director at Portsmouth.

Earlier this year, he took on a similar role as director of football at Stamford Bridge and was placed in charge of the first team alongside Steve Clarke when Mourinho parted company with the club.

Chelsea were fifth in the Premier League when Mourinho departed, two points behind leaders Arsenal and having made a modest start to the Champions League with a 1-1 draw at home to Rosenborg.

The Blues visit Arsenal on Sunday where a win will take them level on points with the league's pacesetters.

[Seapok]

I've lived around the Battersea area most of my live, things have changed a lot since my 89 my friend not as much as the Bridge though, you wouldn't believe your eyeballs if you went down there now, although I'm sure you have seen it many times on TV and how much it has improved, my first game was in 86, I went to see us lose 1-4 to Oxford Utd, not a great start! haha. So why Thailand? wasn't a very popular choice back in day, for non-backpackers anyway.

I married a Thai girl in 1983 and she was a regular at the Bridge with me, we had 2 season tickets in the old West Stand and we often went to the away matches.

I took a redundancy package in 1989 and decided to take the money and get a life in the sun. I struggled with no satellite TV, making do with the Saturday sports programme on BBC World Service radio to keep in touch, but then live football and the internet appeared and things are a lot better now. Still miss freezing me toes off watching Chelsea play Bury away in the League Cup on a Wednesday night followed by a cold train journey home, a couple of hours sleep, and back to work. Strange world ain't it.

Still living with my wife and she's nearly as mad on the Blues as I am. She watches all the matches on the box even the European matches etc at 2.45am.

I see, you married one as well eh? haha they are irresistible little things aren't they! my missus has started coming with me not cos she is a massive blues fan but because she likes some of the players, Joe Cole being the main man! haha.

I'm looking forward to my next trip to LOS in April, maybe we can have a beer whilst watching the blues. I will be in Bangkok for the Wigan game.

[Seapok]

Terry must lead England - Grant

Fabio Capello's appointment as England manager must not result in John Terry losing the captaincy, according to Chelsea manager Avram Grant.

The Italian was confirmed as successor to Steve McClaren on Friday and reports have suggested defender Terry might not retain the captain's armband.

"I don't think, I am sure he is the best captain England can have," said Grant of the Chelsea skipper.

"I am with John Terry every day and I haven't seen another captain like him."

An FA spokesman confirmed on Wednesday that any decision on the captaincy would be made by the new England manager.

There is reportedly a growing feeling of unease within FA headquarters about Terry's attitude towards referees and certain off-field issues.

Terry led players who confronted referee Andre Marriner after Michael Essien's dismissal against Derby in November, for which the Blues were charged

And he also appeared to grab Mike Dean's red card when Mikel Jon Obi was sent off against Manchester United in September.

But Grant insists Terry, who replaced David Beckham as captain soon after McClaren became manager in August 2008, insists there is only one man for the job.

"You saw what happened when he didn't play against Croatia and against Russia, not just as a player but as a captain," Grant added.

"In hard times he knows how to bring everyone together. When you have a player who has a problem, John helps him.

"He is a great, great captain. You will not find anybody better than him and I don't think Fabio Capello is stupid, he knows that."

[Sunderland]

A nice anagram for Chelsea Football Club is Callous fat leech blob

[Seapok]

A nice anagram for Chelsea Football Club is Callous fat leech blob

A better anagram for Sunderland is a completely crap team