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.