Liverpool v Chelsea: Key battles

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No excuse: Mourinho said his opposite number can't use Suarez's departure as reason for their slide in form

Standard Sport7 November 2014

Liverpool host Barclays Premier League leaders Chelsea at Anfield on Saturday in the first contest between the sides since the Blues' April win denied their hosts a first championship in 24 years.

Jose Mourinho's men closed the gap on Brendan Rodgers' league-leaders with that victory last season but now Chelsea lead Saturday's hosts by 12 points after just 10 Premier League matches.

And Spanish striker Diego Costa is set to start after a spell on the sidelines nursing a hamstring problem, before he is then given time to fully recover from his problems during the international break.

Striker Loic Remy (groin) and midfielder John Obi Mikel (knee) are available following recent injuries, with Jose Mourinho having a fully-fit squad to choose from.

Full-back Cesar Azpilicueta is available again after completing his three-match domestic suspension following his dismissal against Crystal Palace.

Here, Standard Sport looks at the key battles which could decide the outcome.