Wxgba

I thought Belletti did quite a good job tonight, and if he can handle Simao, then surely he can handle anything that Blackburn are able to throw at us. I hope he starts there again for the weekend, he's somewhat underrated, in my opinion.

A great overall performance tonight from the lads. I do actually follow Atletico quite intensely so I do pety them a lot, even more so after tonight. I'm pleased that Kalou managed to get a brace, and finally have some luck go his way. I thought Anelka, Lamps, JT, Ashley Cole and Michael Essien were all immense tonight... almost faultless for the most part. Great performance, even better result. Can't ask for much more. Bring on Blackburn...

I'm glad Ashley didn't feature for England tonight, especially if it means he'll be lively on Saturday. He could be the difference for us against a fairly strong opposition away from home. I'm thinking a 2-1 victory.

Hilario, any day of the week. I haven't seen enough of Turnbull to pick him, though, so my opinion does contain some form of bias.

Is it necessary? It's slightly annoying, but if it will help bring in more money for the site or whatever, then I'm quite happy to put up with it.

Chelsea 2-0 Porto. Come on you Blues.

I'd be happy to write one for Essien?

Yeah, I think that's a good idea Steveo. I'm sure there's other things that I could add, but I can't think right now. I'll add my thoughts at a later date if I think of something. The only thing I can think of right now is to finish the remainder player profiles off. Other than that, keep up the good work.

Yeah, it was a great result. It was always going to be a tough challenge for us, as I said previous to the game. As Jim said, Drogba's goal was fantastic. A great glimse of strength to turn the defender almost inside out, and then an electric finish with his 'weak foot' once he caught sight of the goal. Well, I think Malouda's out to prove Kid British wrong. "You can't win the league with players like Kalou and Malouda"... My arse.

Welcome to the forum, mate.

Fair enough, mate. Sorry.

Excellent news. Not too fussed about Paulo's return, but he does add adequate cover to a few positions as he's fairly versatile. I can't wait for Joe Cole to get back in to the first team, though.

Will be yet another challenging game, especially after a physical game against Stoke at the weekend. Think we'll come out on top, though, with us being at home. Chelsea 2-0 Porto.

I always thought it was pretty obvious what they all mean? Or maybe that's just me?

Who'd you think'll manage to get themselves on the scoresheet then?

It's stupid. Teams have been 'poaching' players for quite a while now; it's not like we're the only club to do such a thing. Arsenal, for one, are a prime candidate for doing deeds such as this, e.g. Cesc Fabregas, Fran Merida, etc. It's just typical that they pick up on us. However, we ought to appeal, and if we do, I think there's a strong chance the ban will be shortened, or may be even cleared.

There was no one who we needed to sign, as our squad is quite strong as it is. The ACoN will hinder us, but as EskWeston's already mentioned, that is what a squad is for. Maybe we'll bring in someone in January. Who knows..

Yet another top notch report, Al. Keep it up Cole was excellent - truly deserved the man of the match. Essien was fantastic (as always) again today.

I think the Premier League is more important this season, having not won it for three seasons now. However, both would be nice, as I do feel we deserve it. We've been unlucky in the Champions League in recent seasons, and I think this year might just be 'our year'. If we can keep up the form we're showing at the minute, I have no doubts whatsoever that we are able to win the treble this season.

It's going to be a very tough, and physical game against Stoke, so hopefully no players come back from international duty with any injuries or niggles. As Alex has said, we'll need a fully fit team available to play against Stoke, where it'll be a very physical and tough challenge for us. I think we'll win in the end, though. Although I do think it will be quite difficult, against a resistant Stoke. Stoke 1-2 Chelsea, I reckon, with Drogba scoring the winner.

I'm looking forward to the game. Hopefully we'll stuff 'em.

I was wondering when this would happen... I can tell Jim. It's worth it though, it's the best skin I've ever seen on a football forum. Congratulations and well done!

Nice one.

Possibly. It all depends on who Madrid would rather get rid of, though. And I'd assume that would be Van der Vaart.

Thanks for the fairly swift reply though mate. It hasn't been brought up in the Staff Room at all then?