It is a clash of two high profile Italian managers at Stamford Bridge this weekend, as Carlo Ancelotti’s Chelsea host Roberto Mancini’s Manchester City.
City were knocked out of the FA Cup by Stoke City in their last match, whilst Chelsea were defeated by Internazionale in the Champions League.
However, this match will draw plenty of attention as John Terry and Wayne Bridge meet for the first time since the scandal involving Terry and Bridge’s ex-girlfriend.
Chelsea will be missing Ashley Cole and Yuri Zhirkov again, though Paulo Ferreira could well play left back as he is eligible in the league.
Petr Cech will also be out of action for three to four weeks with the calf tear he sustained against Inter, so the reliable and occasionally brilliant Hilario will deputise.
Roque Santa Cruz will likely start for City in the absence of their main target man Emmanuel Adebayor. Former Blues Shaun Wright-Phillips and Bridge will feature, the latter very much in the spotlight.
New signing Adam Johnson has been impressive too and will be a threat down the left. Patrick Vieira is suspended for this match.
Guus Hiddink was in charge for the corresponding fixture last season, a 1-0 win thanks to Michael Essien’s goal.
The reverse fixture this season saw a 2-1 to City at Eastlands, with Adebayor scoring at both ends before Carlos Tevez scored the winner. Shay Given denied Frank Lampard from the spot, a very rare occurrence.
Ladbrokes has Chelsea as favourites at 4/9, with the draw at 16/5. Manchester City are at surprisingly long odds of 13/2. William Hill concurs, posting the same odds.
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