Liverpool FC Forum

[A.B.]

DUFF AND ROBBEN IN RACE TO MAKE ANFIELD TRIP
The Independent 29 April 2005
Chelsea have serious doubts whether either Arjen Robben or Damien Duff will be fit to start next Tuesday's Champions' League semi-final second leg against Liverpool at Anfield.
Robben is still struggling with a strained tendon in his left ankle and was seen limping after Wednesday night's game in which he came on as a substitute after 60 minutes. There is also concern over the tightness of Duff's hamstring in his left leg.

Neither player is likely to be risked for tomorrow's Premiership match against Bolton Wanderers, in which Chelsea can clinch their first league title for 50 years, although Duff is closer to fitness than the Dutchman who has suffered an injury-plagued season. When asked if either would make the tie on Tuesday, Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho said: "Duff, I think so. Robben, I don't know."

If neither player is able to play it will be a severe blow to Chelsea's chances of reaching next month's final. The cutting edge provided by both was desperately missed in the goalless draw at Stamford Bridge and it could be that Mourinho has to gamble on one or the other. Liverpool, however, have their own problems and there were bitter recriminations yesterday over the late booking for influential midfielder Xabi Alonso for a challenge on Eidur Gudjohnsen which rules him out of the match.

[jonnymac1979]

Probably all mind games.........

[Woollyback]

mind games indeed

but Rafa is better than that, he can rely purely on his tactical brilliance without resorting to leaking bullsh1t stories to the press. And Mourinho knows it

[Cool Hand Luke]

He said that he thinks Duff will be fit and Robben he doesnt know yet. Don't really seem like mind games too me.

[A.B.]

Oh really? Mourinho said that Duff would play in the first leg for certain? Where was he?

[Cool Hand Luke]

Oh really? Mourinho said that Duff would play in the first leg for certain? Where was he?

I don't remember that.

All I remember is that Duff was ruled out on Wednesday morning.

Anyway I said that from what he said in the quote(first post), it doesnt look like any mind games.

[A.B.]

I don't remember that

I do.

[The_Rock]

mind games...it does not matter. Bring on the best chelsea 11 possible. We can beat them if our players give 100%.

[Ciggy]

Mind games lets hope bolton take out a few tonight hey