Carlo influence

Napoli have now managed to beat Liverpool twice in as many seasons.
And former Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti is responsible for both of those victories over Jurgen Klopp’s side in the Champions League group phase.

Last season it was a 1-0 win as the hosts left it late, while Tuesday night it was a 2-0 win with Dries Mertens and ex-Tottenham Hotspur striker Fernando Llorente getting on the scoresheet inside the last 20 minutes. With the European champions not dropping a single point domestically since March 3, Premier League clubs would be well advised to study the Serie A side’s tactics.
But how did Ancelotti mastermind this latest win?

Well, he explained all when speaking to the media after the game at the Stadio San Paolo and revealed the blueprint that Frank Lampard should ideally follow as he welcomes the Reds to Stamford Bridge on Sunday afternoon. The strategy was to play a complete game,” Ancelotti said. “High pressure if possible, but also defending deeper if needed.

“We did everything well. We have to get used to the different moments of the game. When Liverpool were in control we did well in defending and then took our chances.

“It was a very balanced game. So we did well, because I consider them the best team in Europe.”
Chelsea go into this weekend’s game on the back of a 1-0 loss against Valencia on their return to the Champions League.
The Blues have already faced Liverpool this season - losing on penalties in the UEFA Super Cup final last month - and striker Tammy Abraham has warning for Klopp and his side.

“(Sunday) is a test of character. We can take our anger out against Liverpool,” Abraham said. “It’s a massive game and both teams will be going to win.

“We’ll look forward to putting (tonight’s defeat) right.
“We’re obviously disappointed. We didn’t play our best football. Valencia came and stopped us playing the way we wanted so you have to give them credit.

EPL FIXTURES
TODAY, SEPTEMBER 21
Leicester vs. Tottenham (SS3, 2.30PM)
Man City vs. Watford (SS3, 5PM)
Everton vs. Sheff United (SS4, 5PM)
Newcastle vs. Brighton (SS3, 7.30PM)
TOMORROW, SEPTEMBER 22
West Ham vs. Man Utd (SS3, 4PM)
C Palace vs. Wolves (SS10, 4PM)
Chelsea vs. Liverpool (SS3, 6.30PM)
Arsenal vs. Aston Villa (SS4, 6.30PM