Chelsea v Liverpool: five key battles

Unbeaten Chelsea take on Liverpool at Stamford Bridge on Friday night. Here are five potential match-ups we think might be crucial to deciding the result.

David Luiz v Daniel Sturridge

With John Terry ruled out, Luiz will make his return at Stamford Bridge, more than two years after his last appearance for the Blues. That was as a half-time substitute in a goalless draw with Norwich, when he faced Johan Elmander and Nathan Redmond – his former Chelsea team-mate Sturridge will be a tougher reintroduction.

Diego Costa v Dejan Lovren

At the other end, Costa – with four goals in as many games this season – comes up against Lovren, who is fit again having missed the win over Leicester last time out. Reds boss Jurgen Klopp described Costa as “world class” but said his side would not try and provoke the fiery forward – whether Lovren can avoid doing so is another matter.

Willian v James Milner

The versatile Milner has played virtually everywhere in his career – he is currently filling in at left-back and did well against Leicester’s Riyad Mahrez last weekend. Willian has caused problems for many full-backs in the last year, but the hard-working Milner will be a flea in his ear wherever he goes.

Branislav Ivanovic v Roberto Firmino

This time last year, questions started to be asked about Ivanovic’s performances in Chelsea’s stuttering start to the season – there are no such concerns now, bar a small blip at Watford. Firmino will look to continue his form, having scored twice in the win over Leicester.

Oscar v Jordan Henderson

Gone are the days when this fixture would be all about Frank Lampard v Steven Gerrard. This midfield match-up will be about how Henderson – Gerrard’s successor as Liverpool captain – does against Oscar, who hasn’t scored a competitive goal for Chelsea since early January but has impressed in his central midfield role this season.