Chelsea vs. West Brom – 20th August 2011, 17.30
The Blues could give a debut to teenage sensation Romelu Lukaku, following his long awaited transfer from Anderlecht.
The major blow for Andre Villas-Boas is that Petr Cech is out injured for the next month after injuring his ligaments in training. It is still unknown whether AVB will opt for the experienced Hilario or young Ross Turnbull.
West Brom hope to welcome back striker Peter Odemwingie, who missed the opening weekend’s 2-1 defeat against Manchester United.
Jerome Thomas is definitely out, but Steven Reid and Gareth McAuley are both available for the game at Stamford Bridge.
Recent Meets …
Chelsea hammered the Baggies 6-0, on the opening day of last season – Didier Drogba scored an impressive hat-trick which left Blues’ fans feeling very optimistic about the season, which unfortunately turned sour.
Drogba has had an excellent history against the Baggies, he has bagged eight goals in just seven Premier League games against them.
West Brom have not scored at Stamford Bridge since the 22nd September 1993, during the League Cup and the last league goals scored by today’s visitors on New Years Eve back in 1988 in the old division two.
Visitors …
Since sacking the Roberto Di Matteo, new boss Roy Hodgson has led his team to five victories, five draws and three defeats.
In the 13 games Hodgson has been in-charge, the Baggies have scored in all 13 games but kept they have only one clean sheet.
In their last six away games they have only lost once, hopefully after today that will be twice …
By Scott Balaam
Twitter @theshed11