Tuesday 25th November, 7.45 p.m.
A potential banana skin this one, and it's not a definite or even probable win despite Chelsea's very good form at the moment. It's Europe, and it's a different approach to a PL game as Chelsea know, and as Liverpool, Brendan Rodgers and Man city are struggling to understand this season.
Approaches to European games ave very different to preparation for PL matches. Having said that, Chelsea have a huge amount of experience there both in terms of their squad and their coaching / management staff.
Thankfully, Mourhino and his staff won't be taking any chances with this match. Firstly, Chelsea can't afford to lose, and if they do, it could be the Europa league next season. A draw is OK, and that's the mindset they need. Go for the win, but don't over commit and risk losing the match. A draw won't be great, but it won't be a disaster either.
Will Roberto Di Matteo want to prove a point? He'll say no, it's just like any other game, but in reality yes, he'll want to prove a point, and I think Schalke will be 100% up for this one and very difficult to beat. Di Matteo showed at Chelsea that he was very good at winning one off games, and setting a team up to defend against very good attacking sides. His use of Bertrand in front of Cole was sublime when Chelsea won the CL.
Having said that, while he could tweak a very good existing team, while keeping the core the same, he showed he couldn't manage a major transition the way Mourhino has, and that's why he's not in charge at Chelsea any more.
Imo, Chelsea need to cautiously attack, not over commit, be very, VERY wary of Schalke's counter, and utilise the fact that they have better individual skill compared to Schalke and use that skill. Hazard, Costa, Fabregas, Oscar, Willian, etc. Plus, very good physical presence and tactical sense. Terry, Cahill, Azpilicueta, Matic, Ivanovic, etc.
On paper it has to be a Chelsea win.
My prediction. Schalke 1 v Chelsea 2.
Come on the Chels'!