The Champions were shocked on Wednesday night, when they lost against Middlesbrough 2-1 after going a goal up through star striker Andriy Shevchenko.

They looked very frail at the back which is surprising, and it goes to show that they are missing the skills of central defender William Gallas, who rocked the boat by indicating he wanted to leave the London club, and has been left out of the side. Blackburn were unlucky not to beat Everton last Wednesday, ex Porto striker Benni McCarthy grabbing his first goal for the club in a 1-1 draw.

This game is going to be a good indicator for the rest of the season, as Chelsea’s once rock defence does look a little brittle at the back. Middlesbrough played with a high tempo, and basically looked as if they wanted to win the game more than their illustrious opponents.

The same can be said of Blackburn, who’s manager Mark Hughes plays with his heart on his sleeve and manages exactly the same way, and his team will be relishing this challenge. They have strengthened the side at the back with the signing of Andre Ooijer from PSV Eindhoven, while up front McCarthy and Jason Roberts did look very lively against Everton.

Chelsea are a best priced 4/7 to win and there is no way I am taking those odds. Instead, I’m looking at the asian handicaps and like Blackburn +1 @ 1.925 with Bet365, who offer a free £100 bet on the game. At the moment Chelsea are rocking somewhat, if they turn around and win this game 3-0 then we can say ok, what a recovery, but at 4/7 they are way too short. Blackburn are going to be up for this and I think Rovers can steal a draw against the Champs, which would make our bet a nice little winner!