Laurent Blanc hopeful PSG can overcome ‘complicated’ schedule to beat Chelsea again

PSG are 17 points ahead of their nearest rivals Angers in the Ligue 1 table.

Paris St Germain coach Laurent Blanc hopes a “complicated” looking start to 2016 will not hinder their efforts to once again edge past Chelsea in the Champions League.

PSG are due to meet the Blues in the last 16 of the Champions League this season, in a repeat of the 2014/15 campaign where Blanc’s side eked out 1-1 and 2-2 draws to seal an aggregate win on away goals.

Both PSG and Jose Mourinho’s Chelsea are defending their respective domestic league titles this season, though the Londoners are facing a tougher time of it at present.

Nevertheless, Blanc does not foresee things becoming rosier for the French outfit, even if they are 17 points ahead of their nearest rivals Angers in the Ligue 1 table.

Following the Champions League last 16 draw, Blanc was quoted on www.psg.fr as saying: “We cannot wait to be there, even if we know that this is still a bit far, in February.

“We still have many matches ahead of us by then, including a January that looks complicated. The schedule will be very tight, I hope that everyone will be healthy to face Chelsea and fulfil our objectives.”

David Luiz celebrates scoring the late equalising goal last March.

While Blanc feels the repeated meetings between the two sides could prove an advantage, PSG defender Thiago Silva has warned his side to remain on their guard.

“Like last season, we hope to qualify,” the Brazilian said. “It will be difficult but if we want to win the Champions League, we have to win against all teams.

“I think it will be even harder than last season. We know the Chelsea players, and we know they will give everything to get to the knockout (stage). But we hope (to) celebrate the qualification.”