'All Outfield Players Are Fit'

Or does he go for the almost same starting eleven that have produced stunning performances in the last two games against Portsmouth and Barcelona?

Jose said, before the team flew North this afternoon that "all outfield players are fit and are gearing up to play on Wednesday night".

Jose added "The pre-season was a problem. The good thing is that the team sticks together in difficult moments and the results help to create in us that spirit. At this time we have quite a lot of consecutive matches in different competitions without defeat, and the team improves step by step.

"I think it was important to give confidence to players who were not performing very well in the beginning of the season, but we kept our faith in them and kept them together with the team. Sometimes I think it is better to give them a mental rest by giving them a longer period of holiday, and I’m happy with that decision because I see only players improving, not going in the wrong direction, and I see nobody mentally tired, nobody who needs a rest, and everybody wishing to play."

It is certain that Hilario will keep his place between the posts and it is possible that The Shev maybe rested to the subs bench, if you take seriously Jose post-match quotes after the Portsmouth game.

Chelsea has already played Blackburn this season at Ewood Park and won 2-0, so Blackburn will be out for early revenge.

Chelsea's part in the Carling Cup last season was ended by Charlton Athletic on a penalty shoot-out after a 1-1 draw. Lots of argument and debate here as 'everybody' said it was Chelsea's first defeat of the season - How could it be? Chelsea lost on a penalty shoot-out after the match ended in a 1-1 draw.

Whatever side Jose sends out to start the game, Chelsea can expect a tough battle - you wouldn't expect anything less for a team coached by Mark Hughes.

Whether or not the Blackburn paying public will pay any interest remains to be seen. After all it is the Carling Cup, and they are still licking their wounds from the home defeat by near neighbours Bolton Wanderers, at the weekend.

COME ON CHELSEA

GET FIT SOON PETR

41 YEARS A BLUE