Ancelotti sets sights on Birmingham

Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti is expecting a tough challenge against Birmingham at Stamford Bridge.

The Blues host Alex McLeish's side with a handful of injuries, and the Italian confirmed in his pre-match press conference that Alex and Ramires may not be the only casualties.

"The news is that Alex and Ramires will not be involved, and we have a problem with (Branislav) Ivanovic. We will check him in training," said the former AC Milan boss.

Ancelotti was complimentary to the visiting Blues, who will still be looking over their shoulder at the relegation zone despite a weekend win against Sunderland.

"Birmingham is a good team. They are in good momentum, playing well and winning. They are a little bit above the relegation positions and will be a tough game. We have to be ready to win.

"We are thinking that we have to play six games, and our aim is to reach our best position in the table and try to win every game. The gap does not allow us to think we can win the title."


 

The manager recently reaffirmed his commitment to Fernando Torres, stating he's confident the Spaniard will break his Chelsea scoring duck soon. However, Ancelotti admitted it will be tough to recall the player after the team's excellent performance against West Brom at the weekend.

"It is very difficult to change the team that played so well against West Brom, not just because of the result or the performance, but also because they had a very good reaction and took the opportunity to show their character and personality. They did very well."