Five out of United Carling Cup semi

Last updated : 11 January 2005 By Paul Lagan

The Blues are struggling to put out a first team ahead of tomorrow night's clash against Manchester United at the Bridge.

Actually, I'm only joking but five players are out of the Carling Cup semi-final 1st leg.

Arjen Robben is suspended for this match following five yellow cards this season. German centre-back Robert Huth, Portuguese defender Ricardo Carvalho and England midfielder Scott Parker are still injured.
Serbian frontman Mateja Kezman has a niggling injury from Saturday's FA Cup tie and may be rested.

On a positive note, Jose Mourinho can call upon the services of Frank Lampard, who is available following his one-match ban.

It will be good to see Wayne Rooney in an United shirt after his three-game ban.
Others returning from injury include John O'Shea and Quinton Fortune.

Louis Saha could be on the bench. Gary Neville is not yet fit to return - pity that.