Chelsea FC

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Scolari relishing United trip

09 Jan 2009 - 14:00:27

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Chelsea boss Luiz Felipe Scolari believes Sunday's trip to Manchester United provides the perfect opportunity for his players to overcome their recent disappointing form.

The Blues have drawn four of their last five games in all competitions, but Scolari expects his charges to rise to the occasion of taking on the champions in front of their own fans.

Scolari's side have been disappointing against the rest of the Premier League's 'big four' after taking just one point from their home games against Liverpool, Arsenal and United so far this season.

"It is the perfect game to lift them all," said Scolari after lest weekend's surprise 1-1 FA Cup third round draw with League One outfit Southend United.

"It is a fantastic game. I think half of the world will be watching this game.

"The players don't need any motivation. It is very good for us after Southend because it was not a normal result.

"We had 27 shots and scored one goal, they had three shots and scored one goal. This game is two very good teams who have fantastic players.

"We need to win because they are four points behind us and have two games in hand.

"Those two games are not against us. It is not in our hands and we need to think about winning this game.

"If we win, we are in front of Manchester United and we have 18 games to play.

"If you lose one game or three points against a direct opponent like United, you are in trouble. But all the games are a test for our players, we need to win all the games."

Meanwhile, Scolari has rubbished reports linking England midfielder Joe Cole with a move to Tottenham Hotspur.

The Brazilian coach is adamant the 27-year-old's long-term future remains at Stamford Bridge.