Liverpool confirm guard of honour for newly-crowned champions Chelsea

Liverpool have confirmed that they will hold a guard of honour for newly-crowned champions Chelsea when the two sides meet at Stamford Bridge this afternoon.

Tradition dictates that the champions' next opponents after winning the title should applaud them onto the field in recognition of their achievement.

However, a number of key figures from the Chelsea camp have spoken out against the practice, with manager Jose Mourinho labelling it "artificial" and captain John Terry admitting that he would be "uncomfortable" with it.

Liverpool have been one of Chelsea's fiercest rivals over the past decade, but it has now been confirmed that Steven Gerrard will lead his players in a guard of honour this afternoon.

Brendan Rodgers admitted earlier this week that it was not something that his players would be keen on doing, but stressed that they would obey the protocol and show Chelsea respect for winning the title.