Trying to figure out if no Torres is a good thing. I don't want him to score against us for one (even though the chances would have been low anyway But now we will be up against someone who is shall I say... good! Like drogba so is this a good thing, no Torres? Either way he deserved the red.
Torres is still a good player. The important thing is that he only misses 3 games which means he'll be back for Arsenal and he can still play CL games which gives us some respite as he'll still be match fit. Gives us a good chance to rotate in his absence and over the next few games I think we"ll see some big names rested in order to focus on CL qualification. It gives Kalou, Lukaku etc a chance to push for a start against Bolton, Everton and QPR whilst Anelka, Drogba and some of the more experienced heads are used sparingly. September and October are usually really tricky months as in our case we are juggling 3 competitions at once, it's no wonder why some managers want the Carling Cup recolutionised.
I don't think it makes any difference as Chelsea can play several different patterns of play according to who plays. I think Torres has been more effective since Mata and Meireles have been brought in, Chelsea are feeding his strengths and he's been looking sharper as well but Anelka can play a similar role. It's noticeable that Lampard is no longer the first name on the teamsheet in this formation but they can still play him with Drogba in their older style of play to good effect, either way they'll still be a tough prospect. Good to see Swansea dominated for periods and played their usual slick passing game even though against 10 men, Norwich had a similar period in their game as well, so giving it a go is worth trying.
Don't think it really matters whether he's there or not, Chelsea are a strong enough team either way - what we need to worry about is our front men to start finding the back of the net
Regardless as to whether Torres plays or not, I think we will over achieve if we get anything against, ahem , that lot.
