Stamford ‘swim pool’

CLAUDIO RANIERI believes the “swimming pool” Stamford Bridge pitch will transform today’s FA Cup third-round showdown with terrible travellers Middlesbrough into a lottery.

Chelsea's home turf resembled a ploughed field after the St Stephen's Day clash with Southampton and more than three inches of rain has fallen in the week since.

The usually lush playing surface is to be re-laid, but only after next Saturday's home date with Charlton.

Ranieri believes the conditions tomorrow will wipe out his side's psychological advantage stemming from Boro's nightmare form on the road this season.

Steve McClaren's men have taken just four points from a possible 33, scoring just four goals as they have won once, drawn once and lost nine times.

Boro who along with Southampton are the only clubs unbeaten at home have not even hit the net away from the Riverside since winning 3-0 at Tottenham on September 28.