Could the midfielder be deployed via the means of another man-marking job on Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard? Former Blues boss Guus Hiddink opted for such a tactic last season and it worked a charm in Europe at Anfield. Should Carlo Ancelotti decide against such a role, then Essien will still be key in looking to overrun what is likely to be a decisive zone of the pitch.

Must be on the top of his game if he is to keep Fernando Torres quiet. The England captain will no doubt concede he is not the fastest, so he must use his other strengths to help nullify the threat of the rapid Spaniard. Playing a high backline could prove fatal, while marking too tight could allow Torres to turn his man with ease. A balance must be struck.

With first-choice shot-stopper Petr Cech suspended, the pressure is on 33-year-old Hilario to offer his defence a feeling of assurance. The Portuguese has only made 14 Premier League starts for the Blues, and has previously looked rather flappy on crosses. However, this could in fact be a chance for Hilario to impress, with Cech unconvincing so far this term.

It goes without saying that the Spain international's performance will be crucial in determining how well Liverpool fare in West London. The pacey attacker is the top-flight's current leading scorer and will look to use his speed to exploit Chelsea's sluggish central defence. Even if he is marked out of the game, his movement could help create space for his team-mates.

The stopper has come in for criticism of late. Usually Mr Reliable, Carragher's form has been shaky, with the Reds conceding 10 goals in their opening seven games. What is cause for concern is the lack of cohesion at the centre of the Reds' defence, with many goals let in after both centre-backs attacked the same ball. An improvement is vital considering they face Drogba.

The 20-year-old left-back was at fault for Fiorentina's opening goal during midweek, with his positioning careless as Liverpool tried to play the offside trap. Another high-profile mistake such as this will heap pressure on the youthful Argentine. He will face a stern test in keeping Chelsea's right-hand side quiet as Jose Bosingwa bombs forward.