Rovers v Chelsea Betting Preview

Chelsea winning the title last weekend was quite possibly the best news for Blackburn Rovers in their quest for UEFA Cup football next term. Now confirmed as the champions for a second season running, there is little reason for their array of International superstars to risk injury in pursuit of meaningless points. That holds especially true considering what happened to Wayne Rooney minutes before the end of Man Utd's match at Stamford Bridge. John Terry is already set to miss his first league game of the season, while Michael Essien, Claude Makelele and Didier Drogba have remained in London.Whoever is left to represent the title holders are unlikely to be fully committed knowing the World Cup is under six weeks away. It would certainly be a little unsettling to see the likes of Frank Lampard and Joe Cole going in full blooded against a touch Rovers outfit.Rovers aren't without their injury concerns with defender Ryan Nelson certain to miss the visit of the champions. With skipper Andy Todd also missing, Rovers boss Mark Hughes will continue with Lucas Neill at centre-half and Steven Reid at right-back.If Chelsea have shown a weakness in the league this season, it has been on the road where on three occasions the Blues have come away empty handed. A fourth defeat of the season away has to be a distinct possibility now with little to play forGiven one win is all that is required for Blackburn to clinch sixth place in the league, and with it a UEFA Cup spot, the hosts are worth a small investment at 9/4 to win with VCBet. Also worth a small flutter is Craig Bellamy to find the net at anytime at the same price. The Welsh International has proved a very astute piece of business for Mark Hughes with eleven Premiership goals and a whole host of assists. Without the imposing presence of John Terry at the back, Bellamy will find life easier against the Chelsea defence.