Chelsea v Portsmouth - Follow LIVE text commentary

16 December 2009 19:45
Chelsea v Portsmouth

Follow every kick as Chelsea take on Portsmouth at Stamford Bridge in the Premier League
on 16-Dec-2009, kick off time 19:45

Chelsea v Portsmouth Live

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Chelsea have the perfect opportunity to get their title charge back on track on Wednesday evening when they face rock-bottom Premier League side Portsmouth at Stamford Bridge. The Blues' usual strong defensive unit has taken a battering in their last four fixtures.

They have conceded ten goals in the process to anger coach Carlo Ancelotti, who watched his team let just two goals in in the previous nine games. Didier Drogba and Nicolas Anelka were among the goals again at the weekend and they continue to strike fear into opposing defences this season. They should be confident of firing their team to a much-needed victory against Pompey. They are again without inspirational midfielder Michael Essien with a hamstring injury and he is not likely to return until the new year. Salomon Kalou (thigh) could miss out and the game will come too soon for Jose Bosingwa (knee).

Portsmouth have no real injury concerns ahead of their tough trip to the capital to please new boss Avram Grant, who returns to Stamford Bridge after managing them in 2007 and leading them to a Carling Cup and Champions League final. Pompey secured a late 1-1 draw at Sunderland on Saturday thanks to Younes Kaboul's prodded effort. He stripped off his shirt to celebrate the goal and picked up a second yellow card for his actions so he misses the game through suspension.

The two sides met on the opening day of the 2008-09 campaign when Chelsea romped to an easy 4-0 success. Goals from Joe Cole, Anelka, Frank Lampard and Deco caused the damage as Luiz Felipe Scolari began his short-lived stay at the club as manager. With a three-point lead at the top of the table, the Londoners know another success will keep main rivals Manchester United at arms length for another week.

Source: DSG