Preview: Chelsea vs Wolves

Andre Villas-Boas knows that today's visit of Wolves to Stamford Bridge is a must win game, as Chelsea have so far endured the worst start to a Premier League campaign since Roman Abramovich took control of the club. Wolves are battling to retain their Premier League status, and the Blues will be hoping for a significant victory to ensure their season gets back on track.

During the summer, the 13.3m EUR arrival of Andre Villas-Boas was deemed a masterstroke by many football pundits, as the young Portuguese manager had guided Porto to one of their greatest ever domestic campaigns of all time and European success. 


Things have not gone according to plan so far for the 34-year-old coach, though. Defeat to Liverpool and Arsenal at home puts Villas-Boas under huge pressure, and Wolves' visit today surely can be labelled a "must win game" for the Blues.


Wolves' manager Mick McCarthy will probably not be as ambitious as Liverpool and Arsenal when they visit Stamford Bridge, but will sport a defensive formation and try their best to frustrate the low morale Chelsea side. 


However, Wolves' last win at Stamford Bridge came way back in 1979, so not only will it require a massive effort from the Birmingham side, but also a rewrite of history.


 


TEAMS


Chelsea can recall Ashley Cole to the first team, after the defender was left out during their midweek European game.


Danny Sturridge looks set to partner Fernando Torres up front, with Didier Drogba falling back to the bench.


Wolves will be missing the key pairing of Jamie O'Hara and Stephen Hunt, whilst Ronald Zubar could make a return from injury for the first time in over 9 months.


 


PREDICTION
Chelsea 5-0 Wolves

FIRST GOALSCORER
Danny Sturridge