Wolves will no doubt be fielding a full strength team following their £25,000 fine by the F.A. for previously deliberately fielding a weakened team against Manchester United, while Chelsea will hope they are unaffected by the furore surrounding Wolves and will expect to pick up an important three points.
Wolves Boss Mick McCarthy came under fire from all quarters for his team selection against United earlier in the season. As it turned out it may have been a wise decision as his rested first team picked up three points in their following league game. After all, a £25,000 fine pales into insignificance against survival in the Premier League. Adopt tactics like this agaain, though, and the club are likely to be punished much more severely. Wolves will be unperturbed by the latest news and will hope to build on their recent good form. Injuries are few and mostly minor, although all Wolves fans will be looking forward to the day when they can welcome back Michael Kightly into the fold.
Chelsea’s form has been mixed of late and they are in grave danger of letting Manchester United close the gao in them. Their lead is now cut to just one point and Chelsea will know that any slip ups and United will pounce. They can breathe a little more easily knowing that United have a tricky away tie at Everton at the weekend, but this will not stop them thinking that a full three points against the Wanderers is a must. With both first choice full backs out Chelsea may not have the attacking verve we have become accustomed to this season, but I would still expect to see them carve out a victory at Wolves on Saturday.
Verdict: Chelsea Away Win
Odds: 2/7
Bookmaker: Sporting Bet
