Probable starting lineup:
Chelsea: Cech; Ferreira, Terry, Carvalho, A Cole; Essien; Lampard, Ballack; Kalou, J Cole; Drogba.
Liverpool: Reina; Arbeloa, Carragher, Skrtel, Aurelio; Mascherano, Alonso; Kuyt, Gerrard, Babel; Torres
Home advantage
Their supporters will argue that Chelsea are further down the road to Moscow than are Liverpool, the side who have crushed their ambitions at this same stage in two of the last three campaigns. This time Chelsea have home advantage for the second leg, and they also have an away goal thanks to John Arne Riise's miscued header in the 94th minute at Anfield.
'Better team'
That has led to reported claims from opposite number Rafael Benítez that the London team had all the luck last week. Grant dismissed that, saying Chelsea could have had a penalty before Dirk Kuyt struck the opening goal: "At the end of the game we were the better team and we scored in the last minute. You can say whatever you want but the score says 1-1." Grant is hopeful of having Frank Lampard back following the death of his mother – "he's doing everything he can to be available," said the Israeli – but can otherwise select from a fully-fit squad.
Open game?
Every recent contest between these English rivals has been notable for its competitiveness and intensity, and free-flowing football has become a casualty. However, Benítez thinks it may be different this time as he seeks a first win at Stamford Bridge having failed in eight previous attempts since taking charge in 2004. "Chelsea need to attack because their supporters will demand it," he said. "You cannot defend at home and lose 1-0 because your supporters will not be happy. We also need to attack so it could be a very open game."
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