Beat The Blues

Anelka scored against us earlier in the season...

Liverpool are well in need of a remedy to fix the blues after being knocked out of the Europa League on Thursday. A win would at least restore some pride even though the lads should not be ashamed of their fantastic efforts against Atletico Madrid.

This fixture of course poses quite an interesting series of possible events depending on the outcome.

Firstly, and most importantly, a win would keep Liverpool in touch with fading hopes of 4th place, anything less and we kiss that chance goodbye.

Secondly, and quite worryingly more important to some fans is the fact that should Liverpool lose, they will probably end up handing the title to bitter rivals Manchester United. Not only this but it would mean that the Red Devils would finally overtake Liverpool's long standing record of 18 league titles.

As gutting as it is to even think about the amount of gloating and stick we will all have to put up with if they manage to do it, i still think it is vital that the Liverpool result that is best for our football club comes first.

However, it will be hard not to smile at the upside should we lose at Anfield tomorrow. I just wish Sunderland could pull something out the bag, then that would muck everything up.

Kuyt and N'Gog thankfully have been removed from the Liverpool injury list but still out are Skrtel, Kelly, Insua, Aurelio and Torres.

Chelsea's only real absence is that of John Obi Mikel, other regulars all appear to be available.

After Kalou gained a hat trick in their 7-0 romping of Stoke it will be interesting to see which striker or partnership Ancelotti fields for this one.

In terms of our team i think it is highly probable after the long game on Thursday night that some players will be shuffled or start from the bench.

It would be great to see Maxi start again and so too Aquilani, although i get the feeling he may be rested with Lucas and Mascherano partnering in midfield.

Key players for Liverpool in the match are going to be the likes of Steven Gerrard in terms of driving the team, Benayoun if he starts to supply that flair which is much needed against a side like Chelsea and possibly Jamie Carragher to help command a close knit and solid defence.