Chelsea and Roberto di Matteo had the pleasure of watching Bayern Munich field a full strength team against Borussia Dortmund in the final of the DFB Polkal Cup. This match also saw the defence of Bayern Munich exposed to the full extent, thus giving Chelsea manager a great insight into the team ahead of the match between the two clubs next week, in which Bayern Munich are the favourites according to the football odds. However, it will be relegated Blackburn Rovers this week. Roberto di Matteo revealed prior to the match that he will be making lots of changes to the team.
However, it should not lead you into thinking that the team will be comprised only of young players and reserve team players. The interim manager has said that he would be fielding the likes of Daniel Sturridge and Fernando Torres, who still can compete for a place in the starting line-up next week. As a result, one can expect a mixture of youth and experience when they take on Blackburn in the final match of the season. Of course, the players who were suspended from next week’s match will also be involved.
Speaking ahead of the match in the Friday’s press conference, Roberto di Matteo said,
“It is going to be a mix, one or two youngsters and some of the other guys that need a game as well. We have to find a balance, there are also going to be players who are going to be involved next Saturday.”
It has been a very tough season in the last few months with games regularly coming up within three days. The effect really showed in the second half of the FA Cup final against Liverpool. Some may say that Andy Carroll was the reason for Liverpool’s dominance in the second half, but according to me, the tired midfield was the reason for Chelsea being unable to keep the ball. One can expect Chelsea to be at the top of Blackburn today given that Roberto di Matteo will be making massive changes.
I for one would wish to see Romelu Lukaku start the match. The Belgian almost scored against Liverpool, and he displayed everything from pace to power at Anfield. He has not been given the necessary chance to show his skills this season, but he will surely get a run out against Blackburn. Ryan Bertrand has also established himself as the backup to Ashley Cole. Expect him to start against Blackburn as well.
