'We hope': Mauricio Pochettino provides Levi Colwill injury update ahead of visit to Anfield

Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino says he hopes the injury to Levi Colwill is not serious after the English defender was forced to miss the game against Aston Villa. Colwill was in the starting line-up but was replaced by young Alfie Gilchrist before kick-off.

Asked what caused the sudden change, the Chelsea boss said: "We don't think it's too bad. It's a small issue and he didn't feel comfortable. We knew before the game that we might not start him yet then he felt ready to play, but then he felt something. I hope he can train tomorrow."

Chelsea have certainly improved after holding Aston Villa to an entertaining 0-0 and forcing a replay in the FA Cup. The Blues had chances to win it all but in the end, settled for a draw. Chelsea had won their past eight FA Cup matches at Stamford Bridge, but were frustrated by Villa in the closing stages and did not record a shot after the 63rd minute.

A good week at Stamford Bridge

All attention will now be turned to their league game against Liverpool this weekend but this was a good week for Chelsea where they reached the League Cup final after thrashing lowly Middlesbrough 6-2 and have just shown that they have what it takes to compete against Villa who are fourth on the league table and punching really hard in Europa League.

Tougher weeks will come but at the moment it feels like they are sailing in the right direction.