Cardiff City have impressed early in the Premier League season, tallying wins against Fulham and Manchester City, but they face their stiffest test yet on Saturday. While they had the benefit of a spectacular home crowd when they downed City, they'll face one of the Premier League's giants on the road in the eighth round of Premier League play when they take on Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea vs. Cardiff City: Preview and TV schedule
The top of the table is within reach for Chelsea, who will expect to down Cardiff at home on Saturday.
The Bluebirds will be hoping they catch Chelsea looking ahead to an away match against Schalke in Champions League this Tuesday. Chelsea will be resting some of the players they plan on playing in that game, so it’s possible that, despite the Blues’ fantastic depth, they don’t give Cardiff their best on Saturday.
Chelsea injuries and suspensions
Out: Marko van Ginkel (knee), Andre Schürrle (undisclosed), Ashley Cole (rib). In doubt: Fernando Torres (knee)
Cardiff injuries and suspensions
Out: None. In doubt: Andreas Cornelius (ankle)
Jose Mourinho confirmed on Friday that Schürrle and Cole will miss out. Their absences might be precautionary with Champions League looming. Torres is recovering from a minor knee injury and probably won't get a start over Samuel Eto'o or Demba Ba if he's not completely fit. Cardiff are possibly the fittest team in the country and might have no injuries to speak of at all if Andreas Cornelius passes a fitness test.
Projected lineups
Chelsea: Cech, Bertrand, Terry, Luiz, Ivanovic, Ramires, Mikel, Hazard, Mata, Oscar, Ba
Cardiff: Marshall, Theophile, Caulker, Turner, Taylor, Gunnarsson, Medel, Odemwingie, Kim, Whittingham, Campbell
Match date/time: Saturday, 3 p.m. local, 10 a.m. ET
Venue: Stamford Bridge, London, England
TV: Extra Time (U.S.)
Online: NBC Live Extra (U.S.)
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