He introduced our driver, Petr picha, a phlegmatic former trucker and hockey player from the Czech Republic, who waved wearily to us from the well of the driver's seat.

Liverpool took the lead on 33 minutes when John Obi Mikel dwelt on Petr Cech's pass and Charlie Adam robbed him.

Petr Cech and Drogba are reported to be recovering from injury ahead of schedule, while Alex and jose Bosingwa will miss the opening skirmishes.