Chelsea and Arsenal have had little time to celebrate reaching the final 16 of the Champions League. They're preparing for a serious derby this Sunday that could have a big impact on the English Premier League race.
Manchester United has a six point lead over Chelsea at the top of the standings, plays Manchester City at Old Trafford on Saturday. Chelsea hosts Arsenal on Sunday.
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United has 41 points, followed by Chelsea with 35 and Arsenal with 25. Both London clubs have played a game less than the Red Devils. But goal difference is crucial, with only one point separating Arsenal and ninth-place Bolton.
Arsenal drew 0-0 at FC Porto on Wednesday to go through to the knockout phase. Chelsea, which had already qualified, beat Levksi 2-0 at home on Tuesday.
"They know they have a big month ahead of them, and so they didn't play to their maximum," Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho said of his players.
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Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger said his side was physically flat, overcautious and lacking in surprise factor against Porto. But he was relieved he could turn his attentions to salvaging Arsenal's domestic campaign. "We have a big game on Sunday," Wenger said. "Now we can put the Champions League into the cupboard until February and focus on the Premiership."
Chelsea midfielder Michael Ballack is surprised to see the Gunners virtually out of the title race already but is wary of their form against big teams. United's only loss in the league this season was a 1-0 defeat to Arsenal at Old Trafford on Sept. 17.
Chelsea has won its last three games against Arsenal. The last time the Gunners beat the Blues was in February 2004, a 2-1 win at Stamford Bridge. Since the clubs first met in 1907, Arsenal has won 67 matches overall and Chelsea 47, with 49 draws.
Arsenal defender Johan Djourou sustained a hamstring injury against Porto and is doubtful for the Chelsea game. So is William Gallas, a former Chelsea player, who is still troubled by a thigh problem.
Arsenal will again be without captain Thierry Henry, who is sidelined until January with a lower back problem. He missed the 3-0 league win over Tottenham last Saturday and the Porto game.
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Chelsea defender Ashley Cole who moved from Arsenal in a hostile transfer during the off season is expected to play against his former club. Chelsea goalkeeper Carlo Cudicini has a muscle strain and is likely to miss the game. Hilario is expected to start, with Magnus Hedman as backup.
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