Chelsea and Reading are both fresh off weekend matches, with Reading getting the slight bonus of an extra day's rest going in to this match. Considering the talent gap, they're going to need all the help they can get as the Blues open up their home schedule at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea Vs. Reading: Lineups
Roberto Di Matteo has made a couple changes from his team's 2-0 win on Sunday over Wigan. Gary Cahill replaces David Luiz in the central defense alongside John Terry. The other change is in the midfield with Ramires replacing Ryan Bertrand on the left side. Fernando Torres who despite scoring played well on the weekend, remains the lone striker at the top of the formation. Eden Hazard played a big role in Chelsea's first win, assisting on a goal and earning the PK that setup the other. He'll be looking to have a big game in his debut at the Bridge.
Reading has also made two changes after their 1-1 draw with Stoke City on Saturday. Adam Le Fondre is removed in favor of Garath McCleary, an additional midfielder, and Jem Karacan returns to the side, reaclping Hal Robson-Kanu. It appears head coach Brian McDermott will attempt a more conservative game plan on the road against Chelsea, hoping to steal a point. It's a tough ask for the Royals, but anything is possible.
Look for Reading to sit back and attempt to absorb Chelsea’s pressure in the hopes of hitting back on the counter attack at some point. Avoiding an early goal would be a big help as well.
Chelsea XI (4-2-3-1): Petr Cech; Branislav Ivanovic, Gary Cahill, John Terry, Ashley Cole; John Obi Mikel, Frank Lampard; Ramires, Eden Hazard, Juan Mata; Fernando Torres.
Reading XI (4-5-1): Adam Federici; Chris Gunter, Ian Harte, Kaspars Gorkss, Alex Pearce; Mikele Leigertwood, Danny Guthrie, Jem Karacan, Jobi McAnuff, Garath McCleary; Pavel Pogrebnyak
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