The Blues, already odds on favourites, have an additional weapon.
Facing Chelsea at the Bridge is a daunting task at the best of times. Having spent more on transfer fees than the national debt of a small country, even their second team is stuffed with internationals. In addition, the Wanderers have injuries to five key players and the terrifying prospect of Ivan Campo playing at right back is more than a possibility. No Sam, please noooo.
However, even if Bolton were on top form with a fully fit squad and the Chelsea team had been down the boozer the night before for an extended session, we still wouldn`t have a chance.
Because Rob Styles is the referee.
Not that Styles carries a grudge against Bolton. It`s just that he has a severe case of selective blindness that prevents him from giving decisions in favour of clubs outside the top four. Recently Bolton had an obvious penalty turned down for handball against Arsenal. Styles followed that up by denying Sheffield United the same at Old Trafford, this time for a blantant foul. The season before last he let Michael Essien get away with a sickening challenge on Tal Ben Haim.
Rob Styles. Dodgy hair. Dodgy man. He shouldn`t be anywhere near a Premiership match.