Who's Gonna Wear Smerts Shirt ?

Not literally, of course, but exactly who will stand in for 'Deadly' in his enforced absence against Chelsea this Saturday.

The likely candidates are Bryan Hughes, Darren Ambrose, Matt Holland or, quite possibly, El Karkouri. However, there remains a question mark against each and every one of them. Firstly, Ambrose was injured for the England U-21 side last week and his fitness is uncertain. Secondly, both El Karkouri and Holland came through unscathed for the reserves this week but would both have been risked for 90 minutes if they were to feature this weekend ? Additionally, Holland is probably a few weeks off full fitness having not played yet this season and having been injured for the Republic of Ireland's match v France last week. Finally, although Bryan Hughes has performed well in a few cameo roles this season, and is a good performer from off the bench, it is unlikely that he'll be asked to start and especially against Chelsea. If fit I expect Ambrose to make his home debut alongside Kish and Murphy with El Karkouri stepping into the breech otherwise.

Elsewhere, it is hard to see where Curbs would want to change things. He may be concerned about Chris Powell up against either Robben or Wright-Phillips and the younger Jon Spector may be an option. Jerome Thomas's place could be under threat from Ambrose, if he isn't employed in central midfield, and likewise Rommedahl with whom Curbs was apparently unhappy with his (non) defensive display last week at St Andrews.

What is certain is that with a 100% record from four games played this is a game to which we can look forward with a fair degree of optimism. Chelsea also boast a 100% record and so something has to give this weekend. Whilst we are not expected to win Chelsea are and so there is no reason why we cannot go into this game with the pressure off. I expect a decent game, a few goals and both sides remaining unbeaten at 4.50pm. However, I wouldn't complain if we won !!

Finally, this Saturday will see the first visit this season to the café on the industrial estate - so see you there Rob and Di !