New challenge for Scolari

Scolari: Stoke test

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Luiz Felipe Scolari will be facing a new challenge when Chelsea travel to Stoke on Saturday - Rory Delap's long throws.

Delap's ability to reach the centre of the penalty area at high velocity has proved an invaluable weapon for the Potters at the Britannia Stadium.

Stoke narrowed their pitch during the summer to the minimum permitted dimensions of 100m x 64m, which undoubtedly aids Tony Pulis' side as they look to put the opposition under added pressure.

And Scolari admits such a tactic is not one he has faced before, but understands it is just another part of the Premier League's rich tapestry.

Need to learn

The former Brazil and Portugal boss said: "In Brazil, we do not play with this characteristic. Teams in the national competition don't have this style.

"We need to learn to play against Manchester United and against Stoke. It is a contrast. They play very differently and we have been talking about it.

"This is very good for a foreign coach because every day we need to study the opposing team. I learn every day about players and systems and clubs.

"For the coach it is very good to play this week against Manchester, then against Portsmouth then against Stoke. After Stoke, we play Cluj in the Champions League. It is good for a coach and for the players."

Lesson

Before winning the World Cup with Brazil and two Copa Libertadores titles, Scolari began his career playing and then coaching at state level.

As a player, Scolari was an uncompromising defender affectionately nicknamed the "wooden leg" and he won the Alagoano state title with CSA.

"I experienced that style when I played football in my state," said Scolari.

"It is the last state in Brazil and they play football in this same strong style. We are different to Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro.

"There was also a lesson for us last week when Stoke played against Liverpool and got a draw."