The return of Rafa Benitez at Anfield, this time as an opponent of the hosts is one of the main focuses before the match. Liverpool fans still sing the name of the coach, brought their favorite team to the top in Europe in 2005. Benitez, though, has not won the hearts of the supporters of Chelsea and their known chant will probably echo at the stadium tonight - "We don't care about Rafa. He don't care about us". However, no matter what professional the coach of Chelsea is, this clash will definitely be a test of his emotions.
Liverpool manager has no new injury problems. Stewart Downing recovered from illness and can be used in the game. Brendan Rodgers can bet on the former Chelsea striker Daniel Sturridge, who supported by Luis Suarez could surprise his former club. Red's defense is very effective this season not having allowed a goal in 5 of the last 7 games and only Manchester City has shown a better performance in this regard.
Ashley Cole and Gary Cahill could return to play for the blues but the team kept a clean sheet in the previous game and defense may remain unchanged. With the last victory over Fulham 3-0, Chelsea broke a series of three consecutive away defeats. Frank Lampard made his game number 600 and is on two goals from the club's record.
The teams know each other very well and have played 33 matches in all competitions for the past 8 seasons, which Chelsea won 13 and Liverpool 12.
Depending on the tactics of both grands and rather on the constantly changing selection of Chelsea, we can see exciting personal contests between great players like Carragher against Terry, Lampard and Gerrard, Torres and Suarez.
Football predictions and full statistics for Liverpool - Chelsea.