Carlo Ancelotti believes Spartak Moscow have unfair advantage with plastic pitch

Written by Ross Mackiewicz

Speaking ahead of their midweek Champions League encounter Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti has stated his dissatisfaction over Spartak Moscow’s plastic pitch – believing they have an unfair advantage. The Italian is also concerned over his player’s welfare believing the surface could cause injury to personnel such as Michael Essien who is carrying a knock.

Speaking to the Fulham Chronicle the former Milan boss said.

“We have to take into consideration the artificial pitch.”

“We have some players like Essien, he has an injury and to play there is not a good idea. If it is possible, I don’t want to put him on that pitch. I want to give him a rest.”

“Obviously they have an advantage, because they are used to playing there. But I think we can use all our skills and all our abilities.”

“It is the first time for me that my team plays on this kind of pitch. Their (UEFA) rule is that it is possible to play there, and so we have to play.” he added.

The Blues boss also stated that Didier Drogba should be back in action for the visit of Wolverhampton Wanderers next week. The Ivorian will continue his fitness at Cobham whilst his team mates make their way to Moscow.