Di Matteo promises to attack Juventus

Chelsea manager Roberto Di Matteo has vowed his side will attack Juventus in their Champions League clash on Tuesday.

The Blues have been praised for their dogged defensive displays in Europe, a feat which saw them overcome Barcelona and Bayern Munich on the way to winning the trophy last season.

The Stamford Bridge side have been in poor form domestically – taking just two points from a possible 12 – but the Italian manager insists his side will take the game to their hosts.

“It will be a difficult game, but Juventus are under pressure as well,” he told reporters.

“Our intention is to cause Juventus problems, so certainly we will attack as well as defend.

“There was frustration on Saturday and we owe ourselves a good performance. In the past the players showed they can be counted on.”

The former Chelsea player revealed Ashley Cole will be available after recovering from a hamstring injury, but refused to reveal any further information on his starting XI.

“Ashley Cole is available to play,” he said.

“The defensive focus of the team will be very important tomorrow,” he added.

“I feel confident. I have a good team and we know we have to play a big game tomorrow.

“I will see how the players are in training and then I will make my final selection decisions.”

Meanwhile, Juventus midfielder Claudio Marchisio has underlined the importance of the match – but remains confident that they can beat the European champions.

The Serie A leaders currently sit third in Group E with six points from four matches, one point behind Chelsea.

And the Italy international is aware that the battle against the Blues will be decisive.

“It’s the biggest game of the year for us,” the 26-year-old said on Monday.

“We have ended up in one of the toughest sections of this year’s Champions League and we will be facing the defending European champions.

“Perhaps Chelsea have more experience as far as the Champions League is concerned, given that we haven’t played in this competition for a few years.”

However, the midfielder believes that his side’s quality and attitude can overcome the visitors’ hunger for another successful campaign.

“There are many experienced international players in our squad and we’re prepared,” he said.

“We’re possibly approaching this game at the best possible moment, because we reacted well to the defeat against Inter.”