EPL 2012-13: West Brom Albion vs Chelsea Preview

London, Nov 17: Roberto Di Matteo heads back to the Hawthorns to face his former side West Brom Albion as Chelsea seek to get back to winning ways against the side placed fifth in the league.

Chelsea have collected just two points in their last three games and have dropped three points below title rivals Manchester Untied while the Baggies have lost three points at home against champions Manchester City.

Di Matteo returns to face a stern test against Steve Clarke's side with home comforts backing the Baggies, but the Blues have not lost an away game this term, drawing two and three wins.

Clarke, former assistant manager and player for the Blues, would be aware of Chelsea's attacking trio while John Terry's absence at the back could tempt his side to go for the points.

But the Baggies have their own injury troubles ahead of this clash with Ben Foster out with a groin injury while Steven Ried is not expected to start despite playing for the reserves.

Midfielder's James Morrison and Youssuf Mulumbu are expected to return after missing midweek's international break.

Meanwhile, Terry is set to be sidelined after that nasty collision with Luis Suarez last time out while veteran Frank Lampard is ruled out for the clash. Ashley Cole and David Luiz are expected to make the starting XI against West Brom.

Trivia:

*Chelsea record against the Baggies reads W18 D2 L1.

*Steve Clarke was a former player and assistant manager at Chelsea while Roberto Di Matteo helped West Brom earn promotion to the Premier League.

Probable Lineups:

West Brom Albion (4-4-2): Myhill-Jones, McAuley, Olsson, Ridgewell-Morrison, Mulumbu, Yacob, Brunt-Odemwingie, Long.

Chelsea (4-2-3-1): Cech-Ivanovic, Luiz, Cahill, Cole-Mikel, Ramires-Mata, Oscar, Hazard-Torres.

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