The media focus on Wednesday night was undoubtedly on Manchester, where a bitter contest was ensuing between two old rivals both hungry to reach the Carling Cup final and secure the first silverware of the season. However, elsewhere in English football, other clubs were quietly going about their business, unconcerned about the drama unfolding at Old Trafford.
One such team was Chelsea, who brought an end to Birmingham's magnificent unbeaten run in all competitions with a comfortable 3-0 victory at Stamford Bridge. Before the game, all signs pointed to a tough test for Chelsea, who had only managed a goalless draw against a resilient Birmingham side in December at St Andrews. However, a period of domination during the opening minutes of the clash was capped by a simple goal from Florent Malouda, who headed home after good work from the lively Joe Cole.
From the perspective of England fans, it was a great night, with Cole looking back to his old self after making a slow, steady return from injury. Frank Lampard also looked on top form, notching up the second and third goals of the game with accurate finishes.
The result sent Chelsea back to the top of the league, with Arsenal only able to secure a point against a battling Aston Villa side. On the evidence of Wednesday night's action at Stamford Bridge, it’ll take something special to knock Chelsea off their perch. Their title rivals don't look like having the flair or consistency to mount a serious challenge to Carlo Ancelotti's side's quest to bring another title to west London and this is reflected in the Premier League betting odds.
Furthermore, Chelsea could be on for the double, as the best odds FA Cup bookmakers are offering make the London club strong favourites to lift the trophy.
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