CHELSEA’S affinity with the FA Cup shows no sign of ending as they prepare for their ninth semi-final in 17 years and it’s fair to say Stamford Bridge’s love affair with John Terry – if you’ll pardon the pun – looks likely to last just as long after a trademark performance from the centre-half against Stoke City.

Craig Bellamy carved up Chelsea’s Premier League title challenge and then plunged his knife straight into John Terry’s back following Manchester City’s shock 4-2 win at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea 2 Manchester City 4

BLACKBURN had keeper Paul Robinson to thank for two penalty saves that sent them into the Carling Cup semi-finals at Chelsea’s expense last night.

Blackburn 3 Chelsea 3 (After extra-time, Blackburn win 4-3 on penalties)

IT was not just on the pitch that a frustrating reality faced Carlo Ancelotti, it was everywhere.

Wigan 3 Chelsea 1

CHELSEA midfielder Michael Ballack admits he is beginning to feel the effects of the club’s hectic Barclays Premiership schedule.

IT’S a long way from Bramall Lane to the Nou Camp, but Frank Lampard insists Chelsea are in good shape for tomorrow’s Champions League showdown with Barcelona despite losing Didier Drogba in their most physical battle to date.

FRANKLY, it was getting embarrassing. You pay £30m on perhaps the deadliest striker in Europe, yet he has looked more lame duck than lethal of late.

Chelsea 2 Portsmouth 1

Chelsea 1 Barcelona 0

FRANK RIJKAARD admits the serious injury to Petr Cech has taken the usual sting out of Barcelona’s visit to Chelsea.

Chelsea’s chances of signing Ashley Cole may be fading but England will not stop the full-back sorting out his future this week.