Chelsea Could Drop Torres for Juve Clash

• ESPN Soccernet, Monday, November 19, 2012 1:30 PM

Chelsea coach Roberto Di Matteo has hinted that he could bench Fernando Torres for Tuesday’s crucial UEFA Champions League clash with Juventus in Turin, following another listless performance from the misfiring striker against West Brom on Saturday. Torres lasted just 63 minutes of the 2-1 loss at the Hawthorns before being substituted by Daniel Sturridge.

"If I believe it is the right thing to do for the team, then yeah, I will leave him out," Di Matteo said. "When we moved Daniel Sturridge up there, he looked a danger. He had a very good chance saved by the keeper and another put wide. He was always a threat to the defense. We need to score goals, this is clear."

The Italian was also criticized his team’s recent defensive record. "Clean sheets give you a chance to win games and we certainly have to improve on that side," he said. "Of course we miss John [Terry]. He is an important player for us. He gives us a lot of confidence at the back and in general to the team. It's a shame that he is injured, but we will have to do without him until he comes back."

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