Report: Roman Abramovich backs Jose Mourinho's 'B team' plan

Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has reportedly given his blessing to Jose Mourinho to rest his entire first-choice starting lineup in the club's weekend showdown with Liverpool.

Mourinho revealed after the Blues' 0-0 draw against Atletico Madrid on Tuesday night that he planned to rest his players ahead of the second leg next week.

Despite the importance of the clash at Anfield on Sunday, Abramovich and his board will not prevent the manager from making wholesale changes, according to The Telegraph.

Chelsea go into the game second in the Premier League table, five points off Liverpool who lead the way.