Charlie Nicholas thinks the lack of rotation in Chelsea’s squad could cost the team points when they face Valencia in the Champions League this evening.

The Sky Sports pundit says manager Frank Lampard’s decision to keep faith with the same group of players could lead to them losing at the Mestalla:

“I am going for a defeat here. It will be a learning curve for the team. Lampard is using the same players here, so it does take its toll, especially in the demanding games. Injuries could lead to [their] downfall.”

Nicholas has gone for a 1-0 win for Valencia tonight. Considering the Spanish side are coming off a 2-1 defeat to Real Betis in the league, Chelsea’s opponents are not exactly in the best shape.

The Blues may have lost at home to Albert Celades’s side in their first group match back in September but a lot has happened since then, with the London club having improved immeasurably.

Although they did lose 2-1 to Manchester City at the weekend, they managed to dominate possession at the Etihad, which is unheard of against a Pep Guardiola side.

If they can replicate that performance this evening, they should have enough to overcome a Valencia team, who currently sit 10th in La Liga.