sean

This content is not viewable to guests.

They have some good players, Cobs. They do score good goals, they are the best side in the Premiership, but their general style isn't something that I could enjoy, on or off the pitch. The reason I said I'd take UTD any day, was that in their prime they were very good to watch. Arsenal were at the other end of the spectrum, probably TOO good to watche, hence their form was impossible to sustain. No pleasing me.

What's 52 goals got do with a methodical approach? I'm never arguing it's not successful, as their position suggests.

I reckon José plays the victim card a lot more than Ferguson and Wenger ever did to be honest, but he tries to be a smarta*** with it. WhenI mentioned class in the same sentance I was talking more about their attempt to win by playing a bit. Chelsea aren't interested as long as they win.

No Cobs, serious. I've huge respect for Terry and Makelele and the keeper's a bit special, but the rest of them I've not much time for, not that they'll worry unduly. And on the manager, I know they're all spoofers these days but he's simply mad. How he can criticise someone for diving is hilarious. Anyone who saw his Porto side will know what I mean. Ps. I do enjoy our chats about Chelsea, Cobs

I'm early 30's, so I did see us but possibly wouldn't have analysed it as such. But then football wasn't everywheere like it is now. Skysports etc etc... But our most recent comparison as Ged's side of the treble year. I thought it to be dreadful fare, but obviously didn't mind as much as we were the ones lifting trophies.

Bad attitude, but he'd score a bucket load for us.

Without question, they're a very good side. Ridiculous to suggest otherwise. I dislike them because of the attention they bring on themselves and the hype that surrounds them, I sometimes wonder if they've the necessary big club mentality to deal with it. I also don't like them because of the way they go about achieving results. Mechanical, powerful, methodical, all words appropriately used to describe them. I suppose it's all about winning games at the end of the day, or so you'd think. I'd prefer it done with a bit more style and class. Give me UTD and Arsenal any day.

Whereas I understand my infatuation with Chelsea, can never work yours out, Cobs? Grudging respect? Cockney champion? Mine's pure envy, of course.

For a change, a very valid point, Cobs. Who can be sure as to what his motives are. I think José is a fantastic man-manager, but his tactical nouse and prowess in the transfer market are abysmal. My opinion of course.

Aye, all that cash and he goes and buys Chelsea. Ridiculous.

I shouldn't think that'll be enough in all reality. Money spent etc etc.. The fact they're tripe to watch can't help the global image either.

I thought it was a decent game myself, despite the pitch.

Unfair comparison that. He reminds me of Matt Holland tho'

LOL, best post in years.

Magic stuff. If he's not scoring brilliant goals to justify his hype, he's whipping in beautiful assists. This guy has it all.

Why does José keep substituting Lampard in the first half. Can't get my head round it.

Style wins out over sweat. Football lives.

'what did your commentators think of the sending off, will you mention it everyday 200 times like the Essien tackle...' Cut snakes.

Always happy to help, Cobs.

As in his best attacking position.

Premiership is rubbish. La Liga is brill. Comprendé? That what you're after?

We can't expect everything our own way, and if we're honest we can say we've been 'pretty' fortunate in ths competition in recent times. This is the type of game we've got to expect. They'll sit back and attempt to bore us to death, as we've done so successfully in Europe. I don't think they're as organised as us but we simply don't put away many half chances. Seems every goal needs a lot of work. They will allow us a lot of possession over in Anfield and we've got to be cute with it. Obviously they've something to hang on to and God forbid they get an away goal with our strike force being the way it is currently. Got to be Fowler and Crouch up top. With a four of Gerrard, Xabi, Didi and Harry behind them.

He let one drop, very poor it was.

Lack of a cutting edge is worrying, but surely the sheer weight of possessio and drive should see us past these. Plus the keeper looked rubbish on the few instances he was needed.