Chelsea v Reading: Scoreline Tip

I fear for Reading on their first away trip since returning to the Premier League after goalkeeper Adam Federici’s clanger on the opening weekend. The 27-year-old gifted Stoke the lead when Michael Kightly’s seemingly harmless shot somehow slipped through his arms and into the net.

The blunder may have been out of character, but it’s also the last thing the Australian needed ahead of a trip to European champions Chelsea. “I’ve never made that mistake in training, let alone in games,” said Federici.

Asked if the Royals’ late equaliser had saved his blushes he added: “ I wouldn’t say relieved because I’m very hard on myself. I’d say I’m a little bit embarrassed…I’m taking it pretty hard to be honest.”

Chelsea look poised to take full advantage after a comfortable win over Wigan on Sunday. Eden Hazard made a dream debut with two assists inside seven minutes and the £32m signing will surely be relishing his first outing at Stamford Bridge.

With Jason Roberts and Jimmy Kebe again missing for the visitors I can’t see Reading causing the Blues too many problems down the other end either. A thumping 4-0 home win for Chelsea is an 11/1 shot with Ladbrokes, and worth half a point of investment.