Chelsea will be out for revenge against Manchester United in the League Cup fourth round clash at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday following their acrimonious Premier League clash on Sunday.
Blues manager Roberto Di Matteo has revealed he will make sweeping changes for the Capital One Cup clash – just 72 hours after United’s stormy 3-2 win.
Nigerian midfielder John Obi Mikel allegedly insulted with “inappropriate” language by referee Mark Clattenburg on Sunday, according to Chelsea – look certain to be rested, according to the Daily Mail.
Di Matteo said: “It is our fourth game in 10 days and they have all been big games, so we are looking to freshen up the team a little bit for sure and also put a couple of youngsters in.
“We always talk about developing and giving youngsters a chance, so this game is a good opportunity for some of them.”
However, Alex Ferguson will be hoping to exploit the gaping hole in Chelsea’s midfield in the absence of Mikel by playing Javier Hernandez as a lone striker.
The Mexican international scored the dramatic winner to sink nine-man Blues although replays suggested he was offside.
Chelsea’s strength lies in their midfield whereas United have the Premier League’s best striker, while both are vulnerable in defence.
Some reports suggested Ferguson is expected to rest Robin van Persie and Wayne Rooney, putting pressure on the likes of Nani and Danny Welbeck to be at the top of their games in a 4-5-1 formation.
But United will be up against it either way as Chelsea will seek to bounce back like wounded tigers.