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Chelsea v Royals Preview

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Reading travel to Stamford Bridge, still in search of an away win that has thus far eluded the Royals this season.

After an excellent display at home to Manchester United last week, Reading will be highly motivated, giving them the belief that they can get something out of this game.

Vital Quotes:

Chelsea midfielder and former Royal Steve Sidwell on the meeting between the two sides earlier this season;

‘In the first half they were out of the traps and it was probably the toughest 45 minutes we played this season.

‘I spoke to the Reading boys after that and since, and they say that’s the best they played all season as well’.

Sidwell on tomorrow’s game;

‘We have a winning mentality and momentum which could be bad for Reading. They’ve had 10 days off, so we’ll see how they come out.

‘They could be sluggish, but I know the players and staff there, and Steve Coppell won’t let them do that, they’ll come out and try and repeat what they did at home to us.’

Chelsea Team News:

Key players Frank Lampard and John Terry are still sidelined due to injury.

Didier Drogba, Salomon Kalou, Michael Essien and John Obi Mikel are all on international duty.

Juliano Beletti is suspended.

Former Reading man Steve Sidwell should play.

Player to watch: Nicolas Anelka

Anelka has looked good since his move to the Bridge and after getting his first goal for the Blues on Saturday, he will be eager to add to his tally.

Reading Team News:

Reading are missing Brynjar Gunnarsson, Michael Duberry and Glen Little through injury, whilst Shane Long is suspended.

Ibrahima Sonko, Emerse Fae and Andre Bikey are in Ghana for the African Nations.

John Oster has recovered from injury, but is unlikely to play due to lack of match fitness.

New signing Marek Matejovsky will at least be on the bench and may even get a start.

Player to watch: Dave Kitson

Kitson has been linked with a call up to Fabio Capello’s first England squad and will be hoping to impress any potential on lookers.

Match Facts & Stats

Reading are still looking for an away win this season.

Chelsea have not lost at home in the league for four years.

Match Prediction:

Reading can’t win away, and Chelsea have forgotten what it’s like to lose at Stamford Bridge. Therefore does this match have all the indications of an upset? I doubt it.

My prediction;
Chelsea 1-0 Reading

Next Fixtures:

Bolton (h) 02/02/08

Everton (a) 09/02/08

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Good times never felt so good.

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