Chelsea FC

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• Founded:1905
• Manager:Carlo Ancelotti

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Ancelotti backing for Turnbull

15 Mar 2010 - 13:07:46

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Carlo Ancelotti has backed Ross Turnbull to cope with the pressure of making a rare Chelsea start against Internazionale in the Champions League.

Turnbull, 25, made his first Premier League appearance for the Blues following his arrival last summer from Middlesbrough during Saturday's 4-1 win over West Ham United.

Number one Petr Cech remains sidelined with a calf injury while understudy Henrique Hilario has added to Ancelotti's problems with a groin knock.

But despite the high-profile nature of a European last 16 tie against the Italian champions on Tuesday night, Ancelotti expects the young English keeper to handle the occasion.

"Turnbull played well on Saturday, he is confident and we have a lot of faith in him," he explained.

"There is no question whatsoever of taking a risk on Cech or Hilario. Cech didn't train so it is impossible he will play.

"Cech has more experience than Ross Turnbull but Ross is young and has enthusiasm to want to play. For him it will be a great, great experience."

Meanwhile, the Blues will be boosted by the return of defender Ricardo Carvalho following a hamstring problem.

The Portugal centre-half missed Saturday's game but will return to face Inter.