Chelsea vs Schalke: Preview, Team News, Likely Line-Ups, Key Man & Predicted Score

Chelsea take on Schalke at Stamford Bridge tonight looking to go one step closer to qualifying for the knockout stages of the Champions League.

The Blues head into the game sitting top of Group E after recovering from a shock defeat to FC Basel on Matchday 1 to win their next two fixtures, including a 3-0 win over Schalke last time out, and now lead the Germans on goal difference.

Another victory tonight would see Jose Mourinho’s men move onto 9 points and on the verge of qualifying for the next phase, but defeat coupled with a win for Basel in the groups other fixture would leave them sitting in third and in danger of missing out.

Chelsea warmed up for the game with a disappointing 2-0 defeat to Newcastle on Saturday and Mourinho is demanding a response this evening. The Portuguese coach should be confident with his side losing just once in their last 30 Champions League group stage matches at the Bridge.

Team News

Chelsea have been hit with an injury blow ahead of the game with striker Fernando Torres ruled out after picking up a leg injury in training on Monday. Samuel Eto’o is expected to deputise up front.

Left-back Ryan Bertrand is also missing after picking up an injury on Tuesday and he joins Marco van Ginkel on the sidelines.

Mourinho has no other injuries to worry about but is expected to make changes to his line-up following Saturday’s poor performance at St James’ Park.

Schalke are without Marco Hoger and Klaas-Jan Huntelaar who are both ruled out with long-term injuries.

Chinedu Obasi and Kyriakos Papadopoulos are still struggling for match fitness and Jefferson Farfan remains out with a groin injury.

Likely Line-Ups

Key Man

Andre Schurrle: The German should know the opposition well from his time in the Bundesliga and will be hoping to stake his claim for a regular first team berth with a positive display tonight.

Predicted Score

Chelsea 2-0 Schalke: We cant see past a home win here with the Blues moving to within touching distance of the knockout stages.

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