Barcelona vs Chelsea Betting Preview

Since the final whistle of Chelsea's FA Cup defeat at Newcastle, the bookmakers have one by one shortened their odds on the Blues losing in Barcelona on Wednesday.<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" />At the time of writing William Hill are the only firm still quoting the original 11/10, and it is doubtful that price will last much longer. The reason for the support for Barca is the injuries suffered by the runnaway Premiership leaders. Mourinho, whose team are now chasing three trophies, had already lost winger Arjen Robben for the Champions League match. Wayne Bridge is definitely out, while William Gallas and Damien Duff could also miss the game. The French defender and Ireland International both picked up their injuries in the closing stages of Chelsea's 1-0 defeat at St James' Park. What this means is Ferreira, usually a right-back, may be switched to left-back with Johnson playing on the right. Hardly ideal preparation for a trip to the Nou Camp.Even with a full compliment of players, gaining a positive result against Barcelona would have been no easy task. The Catalan giants have won eleven of thirteen at home this season in La Liga, scoring 28 goals and conceding just 6 in the process. Chelsea have been equally as formidable away in the Premiership, although since Robben was injured - the Londoners have lacked a definite edge going forward. Potentially losing Damien Duff is only going to make matters worst. The advice is to take the 11/10 while it is still on offer for a home victory.