Opta examine the credentials of Carlo Cudicini and Petr Cech.
While rivals Arsenal and Manchester United continue to search for a long-term solution to their goalkeeping problems, Chelsea have two of world football's finest shot-stoppers on their books.
Czech Republic international Petr Cech was brought to Stamford Bridge in the summer and has enjoyed an enviable first few months at his new club.
Just six goals have been squeezed past his giant frame in 16 Premiership games.
Such a ratio means he is on course to let in just 14 in a 38-game season, which would be a new record in English football.
Nevertheless, Carlo Cudicini, the deposed goalkeeper, can feel hard done by. He kept 14 clean sheets in 26 appearances for The Blues last season and was forced to make a save every 44 minutes on average - more often than the 55-minute ratio of Cech.
| Player | Carlo Cudicini 2003-04 | Petr Cech 2004-05 |
| Appearances | 26 | 16 |
| Minutes On Pitch | 2340 | 1440 |
| Goals Conceded | 20 | 6 |
| Clean Sheets | 14 | 11 |
| Saves | | |
| Inside Box | 31 | 13 |
| Outside Box | 22 | 13 |
| Mins per save | 44.2 | 55.4 |
| Saves to Shots ratio | 73% | 81% |
| Catches | | |
| Punches | 14 | 14 |
| Catches | 45 | 27 |
| Dropped Catches | 7 | 4 |
| Catch Success Rate % | 87% | 87% |
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Cudicini has been given run-outs in Carling Cup and UEFA Champions League games this season and has kept three clean sheets in four matches.
Few clubs in the world can boast such strength in depth in the goalkeeping department and if the Italian is happy to remain as second-choice, then it can only boost Chelsea's chances of scooping some silverware in the coming months.
