Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti is expected back in England for the Premier League home clash with Arsenal on Sunday following the death of his father (Blues 8/11 to win the game).
Ancelotti Snr passed away on Wednesday night at the age of 87 and his funeral will take place on Saturday in Italy which means his son will miss the build up to the weekend.
But the former AC Milan coach is set to be back in London when the Gunners make the short trip to Stamford Bridge.
A Chelsea statement read: “Carlo Ancelotti’s father Giuseppe passed away in Italy last night aged 87 with his son at his side.
“Everyone at Chelsea Football Club sends our deepest condolences to Carlo and his family. They are all in our thoughts at this time.
“The funeral will take place in Italy on Saturday. Carlo will return to London for Sunday’s match versus Arsenal.”
Blues striker Didier Drogba has already described Sunday’s game as one the Blues cannot afford to lose following last weekend’s defeat at Manchester City (Drogba 4/1 – Enhanced First Goalscorer).
He told Sky Sports: “When I was playing in France, Arsenal was an example for us because there were all these French players who used to play in the French league and went abroad to play for Arsenal with a French manager.
“So to play against them for me means a lot.”
Drogba added: “I don’t think we can afford to lose a second game, especially against Arsenal
“People have to know, and we know, that we’re going to lose some games this season.
“But again, it’s always good to win, it’s always better to win.”
Arsenal also lost last weekend – 3-2 at home to promoted West Brom – but like the Blues they also bounced back in midweek in the Champions League (Gunners 10/1 – Champions League Outright).
Gunners understudy Lukasz Fabianski looks likely to keep his place in goal with Manuel Almunia struggling with an elbow problem.
The Pole was impressive against Partizan Belgrade during Tuesday night’s 3-1 win but will know he needs to back that display up if called on at the Bridge.
The 25-year-old said: “Overall, I am pleased with my performance.
“I am not talking about just saves, but reading the game, coming for crosses or playing with my feet.
“Every aspect of goalkeeping is important for me, so I am pleased with my performance in general.”
Fabianski added: “I am ready to play against Chelsea. I was always ready, so we will see.
“I was never really bothered by all the things said. I was always trying to focus on my job and my work.
“That is what I was always doing and that why I am grounded.”
With or without Fabianski, Arsenal are 18/5 for the away win.
Bet on the World Cup and get £200. Click here to visit Bet365 and claim your free money.