Essien sets his sights on home record

Michael Essien believes newly-promoted Birmingham have no chance of beating Chelsea in their first game.

The Ghana international insists that Jose Mourinho's side will set a new record for an unbeaten home league run despite their injury crisis.

They equalled the landmark of 63 matches set by Liverpool in the 1970s and 80s at the end of last season, and Essien said: "We are not going to lose. We will keep our home record.

"It is always good to win at home and at least if we get a draw it is fine."

Chelsea had only 12 players training fully on Tuesday and a series of key figures including John Terry and Didier Drogba will be missing for Birmingham. Ashley Cole and Petr Cech should, however, both be fit enough to play.