Premier League leaders Chelsea begin their Capital One Cup campaign with the visit of Bolton Wanderers to Stamford Bridge on Wednesday night.
As far as manager Jose Mourinho will be concerned, the League Cup is the lesser of the four prizes that his side will be challenging for this term.
That viewpoint is likely to be reflected in Mourinho's team selection, with the likes of Diego Costa, Cesc Fabregas, Eden Hazard and captain John Terry all expected to be rested. Those omissions are likely to hand starting opportunities to host of players, including Andre Schurrle, Kurt Zouma, John Obi Mikel and potentially even youngster Lewis Baker.
There could also be a change between the posts, with Thibaut Courtois making way for the more experienced Petr Cech.
As far as visiting Bolton are concerned, this competition may well provide a welcome distraction from the form that they have been showing in the Championship. Dougie Freedman's side have won just once, while losing on five occasions, including last time out to Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Like Mourinho, it is anticipated that Freedman will make alterations to his side. That could mean a first appearance for Paddy Kenny in goal, while defender Kevin McNaughton and midfielder Darren Pratley are also in contention.
The Trotters are without a victory from their last 18 meetings with the Blues, with their last win having come at the Bridge back in 2003 when Chelsea skipper Terry put through his own net.
Recent form
Chelsea: WWWWDD
Bolton: LWLDWL
Possible starting lineups
Chelsea: Cech; Luis, Zouma, Cahill, Ivanovic; Mikel, Ake; Salah, Oscar, Schurrle; Remy
Bolton: Kenny; Moxey, Mills, Ream, McNaughton; Danns, Pratley, M Davies, Spearing, Lee; Beckford
Sports Mole says: 2-0
Liam Apicella
