Blues braced for more defensive problems

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Chelsea’s defensive worries could worsen today, with the Football Association tipped to hit Branislav Ivanovic with a three-match ban.

The FA’s disciplinary panel will view video footage of Ivanovic appearing to punch Wigan’s Shaun Maloney in the stomach during Saturday’s game at Stamford Bridge.

The incident occured in the build-up to Juan Mata’s controversial winner and was missed by referee Mike Jones, but Ivanovic may still be suspended for violent conduct.

A ban would rule him out of Chelsea’s FA Cup semi-final against Tottenham as well as vital league games against Arsenal and QPR.

Ivanovic’s absence would be particularly untimely for the Blues given current concerns over the fitness of John Terry during a hectic period of fixtures.

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