EPL Preview: Fernando Torres Set To Make His Debut for Chelsea

West Ham vs Birmingham

West Ham United and Birmingham City are set to lock horns at Upton Park in a game that could decide the Premier League future of both teams. West Ham look to be having the advantage in this relegation battle after their recent form has seen them rise from the bottom of the table to a position from which, they are capable of avoiding relegation.

Birmingham City, meanwhile, have been on the wrong end of the form table and are slipping fast into the relegation zone.

Even though Alex McLeish's men managed to beat West Ham United in the Carling Cup in a convincing fashion, their Premier League form suggests otherwise. They have not won in the Premier League for a long time and that also includes a 5-0 drubbing at the hands of Manchester United.

Alex McLeish used the January transfer window to strengthen his side significantly and it could see the start of Obafemi Martins and Curtis Davies in the Birmingham City starting lineup. Avram Grant also used the transfer window to sign Robbie Keane, who scored on his debut for the club. He is expected to start, while Victor Obinna will be the danger man for West Ham.


Chelsea vs Liverpool

Fernando Torres and Luis Suarez will be at the centre of attention when Chelsea and Liverpool kickoff at the Stamford Bridge, rather than the recent revival in form that both clubs have been enjoying.

While Chelsea signed Fernando Torres for a British transfer record of £50 million, Liverpool did not too badly by signing Andy Carroll for a club record £35 million. He is not expected to feature for Liverpool as he is yet to recover from his injury, but Luis Suarez will be making his first start for the club.

However, there is a feeling that Fernando Torres will be stealing all the limelight before the start of the match.

He could also steal it after the match provided he scores for Chelsea on his debut. If it does so, then all eyes will be on his celebration or rather the lack of it. Fernando Torres has said that he will not be celebrating his debut goal for Chelsea if it comes against Liverpool.

He is expected to start, but another new signing David Luiz is a doubt for the game after he recently returned to Brazil to resolve the work permit issues.


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