WELCOME TO AFP'S LIVE REPORT on the English Premier League clash between title contenders Chelsea and Brendan Rodgers' struggling Liverpool side at Stamford Bridge.

The match is due to kick off in west London at 4pm local time (1600 GMT) so stay with us for all the action as it unfolds.

Chelsea have slipped to third spot in the table after Manchester City's 2-1 win at home to Tottenham earlier this afternoon.

The Blues will be anxious to end a run of four straight league defeats against the Anfield club and with this season's title race threatening to be a tight, three-way battle between Chelsea, Manchester United and City, every league point is vital.

Roberto Di Matteo should have midfielder Juan Mata and centre-back David Luiz back in the side but is still missing Frank Lampard with a calf injury and Ashley Cole.

Liverpool defender Martin Skrtel misses the game with a virus with Jamie Carragher replacing him in the side