Chelsea 1-1 Man City - as it happened

1. Gap at top stays at five points
2. Silva diverted Aguero's shot home to level
3. Chelsea went ahead with Remy's close-range finish
4. Lampard was a 76th-minute sub

Goodnight

Well, it was not quite the thriller we all hoped for - that will probably end up being Chelsea versus Sunderland on the final day of the season - but at least it keeps things ticking over nicely in the title race.

It is time to bring this live text commentary to a close but we'll have plenty on the site later analysing today's big talking points with a blog from chief football writer Phil McNulty, while Danny Murphy will look in detail at Kurt Zouma's impressive display against Manchester City.

Keep an eye out for all of that but for now it is goodbye from me.

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Cheruiyot A Kirui: Chelsea missed Fabregas so much, Mourinho should have looked at a Fabregas back up this window.

Man of the match for me? Kurt Zouma. Just how great does he look? He was an assured presence at the back for Chelsea throughout. He will be a big player for the Blues in the title run.

Player reaction

Manchester City midfielder Frank Lampard, speaking to BBC Sport: "It was strange but I knew it would be different. I enjoyed it. It is a special place for me here and I am coming back with a very good team. I think City maybe edged it.

"The Chelsea fans have been here a long time, they support their players and people who come back generally get a good reception. They supported their team throughout the game and they gave me a great moment at the end of the game. The City fans were great too, I think I am very lucky to have represented two great clubs.

"I have not played here for quite a while, it is a special place for me and for that reason I wanted to come here and enjoy it."

The silent one

So that is the Manchester City manager, players and Chelsea players who have given their thoughts on the game but there is one notable absentee - Jose Mourinho. We've just had confirmation he won't be speaking too.

The silence continues...

Manager reaction

Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini, speaking to Sky Sports: "We played a very good game. One team wanted to play from the beginning. The only chance Chelsea got they scored a beautiful goal. In the second half Chelsea defended very well, but I am very proud about our team - to have the personality to come here and try to win from first minute to end.

"We took the risks and tried to win. I don't want to talk about what Chelsea tried to do. We wanted to win and have the possession. We have to play 45 points more. Chelsea stay five points in front. Maybe they are happy. I am never happy when we drop points."

Getty Images

Well isn't this just the kind of picture that warms your heart? Surely win-win for Frank Lampard? He came back to Stamford Bridge, helped his side to a decent result, but didn't have to be the villain for Chelsea.

Manager reaction

Manchester City boss Manuel Pellegrini, speaking to BBC Sport: "We are not happy with a point. I am happy with the way my team played today. We had three good chances in the first half, they scored with their only chance in the 90 minutes - they did not even have a shot in the second half. You may say it is a good point at Stamford Bridge but for me it is not because we were better than Chelsea."

Player reaction

AP

Manchester Cit captain Vincent Kompany, speaking to BBC Sport: "We had more shots on target and efforts, I thought we were the better team. The gap is still five points and five points is not too much. Experience tells us that five points is nothing. It gives us enough confidence to push on."

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Feroze Hussain: Chelsea dodged a bullet today!

John Stanhope: Chelsea perfectly illustrating why they wont win the league. No ambition or drive to grasp the match, the same as last season when they bottled it.

Lewis Keeffe: The draw works better for Chelsea than for City. Five points clear of an improving United and six from the dark horse Southampton.

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Player reaction

Manchester City midfielder Frank Lampard, speaking to Sky Sports: "The last few games we've dropped our standards a bit but that was more like it. It keeps it bubbling. I don't think either team can be too upset with the result.

"From a personal point of view it was a bit of a strange day coming back to Stamford Bridge. I was a bit nervous, but I was delighted with the reception from both sets of fans.

"You don't know what kind of reception you'll get but Chelsea fans showed their class. I'm pleased to come back and see lots of people behind the scenes and running back out on that pitch."

Player reaction

Chelsea striker Loic Remy, speaking to BBC Sport: "We are still first, City are still five points behind us. It is not too bad a result tonight.

"For me it was a good opportunity to play, even more so in this kind of game because it is a really big one. I have not played much so it was good to have the opportunity to show that management and staff they can count on me.

"This league is really tough so until the last day nothing is really decided so we have to fight every week but we have to keep up the gap and we can."

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Chelsea's Nemanja Matic, speaking to Sky Sports: "We scored in the 41st minute and it would have been a good moment for us to go into the break 1-0 up but City showed they are a strong team, they never give up and scored in the last minute of the half.

"If you give them a chance they will score but I am happy with how we played. We had a very tough game against Liverpool in midweek and this is a good result for us."

Will we hear from Jose Mourinho? Who knows, but here are some words from Nemanja Matic to keep things ticking over for now...

BBC

Here is the running order for tonight's Match of the Day.

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Steve in Surbiton: Great game, and that's why City are champions. In the second half they took Chelsea apart, and Joe Hart didn't have to make one save.

Gareth: Man City have completely blown their chances of taking advantage of a Chelsea team who were exhausted from Tuesday's match against Liverpool and missing our two most important players. Jose will be laughing all the way to the title.

Tom from Surrey: A 1-1 draw is an adequate result in my eyes. I think Chelsea will move forward with their five point advantage and will win the league with ease now.

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Injured Huddersfield player update

Away from this game, it was reported earlier that Huddersfield defender Tommy Smith was taken to hospital by helicopter after suffering a severe head injury.

There has been no official update on his condition since then, but Terriers captain Mark Hudson has recently tweeted: "Good to hear Tommy Smith is sat up and talking at hospital."

John Murray, BBC Radio 5 live football correspondent at Stamford Bridge

"Chelsea played within themselves towards the end, and did not commit players down field. And I think Jose Mourinho will be the happier of the two managers with this outcome."

I think it is pretty clear that it was very much about avoiding defeat for Jose Mourinho today. Chelsea only had three shots in total, the lowest figure they have recorded in a single Premier League game since 2003/04, and not one of those came in the second half.

Chief football writer Phil McNulty at Stamford Bridge

PA

"Only player left on the pitch is Frank Lampard, taking warm applause from the vast majority of Chelsea fans."

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Andy Knowles: Missed opportunity for City. By far the better team. Still, a decent point away at Chelsea.

Ben Goodwin: Chelsea parking the bus for a draw at home? Embarrassing.

Ferdinand Omondi: Still number one. Still five Points Clear. Have that.

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BBC

So it is pretty much as you were at the top of the table. Both Chelsea and Manchester City are a point better off, but the gap remains five points. All very much still to play for.

Former Man City player Fred Eyre, BBC Radio Manchester

"Every player had to be at the top of his game, and most were right the way through both sides. It was a great Premier League game. Unfortunately it hasn't provided us with a definite result.

"If Chelsea had won they would have been home and hosed in terms of the title. But a good performance from City, who have plenty of points left to target this season. The longer City keep on Chelsea's shirttails, the better as far as neutrals enjoying the remainder of the season.

"A draw was, overall, a fair result."

FULL-TIME

Steve Wilson

BBC Match of the Day commentator at Stamford Bridge

Getty Images

"This time Frank Lampard could not provide a late dramatic twist. A good game, not a great game, and not in the end I think a decisive outcome for the title race."

SUBSTITUTION

Ruben Loftus-Cheek is on for only his second-ever Chelsea appearance as he replaces Oscar for the final few seconds. Can he make a late impact?

Chief football writer Phil McNulty at Stamford Bridge

"Jose Mourinho's decision to take off striker Loic Remy and send on defender Gary Cahill is a pretty clear reflection that Chelsea will now happily take this draw."

Former Man City player Fred Eyre, BBC Radio Manchester

Reuters

"Manchester City are now really forcing the issue, and full marks to them. As this game draws to a close only one team is looking for the winner, and it isn't Chelsea."

...and it is a poor one, Oscar hacks clear.

Jesus Navas' cross is put behind and Manchester City have a corner...

SUBSTITUTION

Manchester City boss Manuel Pellegrini makes his final change as David Silva is replaced by Stevan Jovetic. Into three minutes of stoppage time...

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Faddi S: More boos than cheers for Lampard, but don't let fact get in the way!

Kenneth Barr: On the TV it sounded like a warm welcome for Lampard, while support for Chelsea. The few boo-birds were drowned out.

You pays your money you takes your choice...

CLOSE!

A good chance for Manchester City as David Silva puts James Milner in, he tries to bend his shot in at the far post but it drifts just wide.

SUBSTITUTION

Jose Mourinho brings on another defender to strengthen things up at the back even further, Gary Cahill replacing striker Loic Remy.

PA

Manchester City are pressing, they try to find a weakness in the Chelsea defence as Frank Lampard, Fernandinho and Bacary Sagna all stroke passes across midfield but they cannot find an opening. Time is running out...

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Ody in Sunderland: What odds Lampard to nick it for man city?

Ashwin from Cambridge: If Frank Lampard comes on and scores the winner, I'll go to my next lecture dressed in nothing but bacon...

How very Lady Gaga (2010), Ashwin...

Getty Images

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SUBSTITUTION

Another change for Manchester City, with striker Edin Dzeko coming on. Is Manuel Pellegrini boosting his firepower? No, it is fresh legs in attack as Dzeko replaces Sergio Aguero.

SUBSTITUTION

AFP

Willian is slowly making his way off the pitch. He has an injury and can't continue so on comes Didier Drogba for the last 10 minutes. A Chelsea hero to grab the winner? But will it be Drogba or will it be Lampard?

James Milner has dropped deeper, alongside Fernandinho. Frank Lampard has taken up an advanced role, behind Sergio Aguero. A fair number of Manchester City's chances have been pot shots from outside the area. Perfect, you would think, for Lampard.

Chief football writer Phil McNulty at Stamford Bridge

Getty Images

"Frank Lampard is on to a reception that is more applause than jeers - and a somewhat heated discussion breaks out among a small group of Chelsea fans with one supporter shouting at a dissenter: 'You've got a short memory.'"

SUBSTITUTION

Getty Images

Frank Lampard does indeed come on, an unusual sight for the home fans as he trots onto the pitch in the light blue colour of Manchester City. A few boos, but not too many. Fernando is the man to make way.

YELLOW CARD

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This might have cheered Jose up a little, though, as Fernando is booked for a foul on Eden Hazard. The subsequent free-kick is wasted. Frank Lampard is about to enter the fray...

Jose Mourinho has a word in the ear of Mark Clattenburg after Manchester City are awarded a free-kick. Whatever was said, it did not appease the Chelsea boss as he shrugs his shoulders in frustration. His side are offering nothing for him to get excited about on the pitch as Manchester City continue to dominate possession. There's a real sense of anxiety around Stamford Bridge.

Former Man City player Fred Eyre, BBC Radio Manchester

"City seem to hit a brick wall every time they reach the Chelsea penalty area. Terry has that back line marshalled brilliantly, so perhaps City will be hoping for another gift from Courtois."

Chief football writer Phil McNulty at Stamford Bridge

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"Second half could do with a livener - been rather dull so far. Frank Lampard has been up and down having the studs in his boots adjusted so he may be the man to provide it. Lots of histrionics from Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho in his technical area as he feels decisions are going against his team. Not a happy Jose at all today."

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Tim Collingwood: City having a lot of long range speculative efforts. Maybe a certain Frank Lampard would be ideal?

Cephas Ifeanyi: There is a rock in Nigeria called Zuma Rock. Kurt Zouma has a rock.

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David Silva dinks a free-kick into the area, aimed at Sergio Aguero, but Cesar Azpilicueta has it covered and he heads it out of the area. Soon after, Fernandinho shoots low at goal, but Thibaut Courtois stretches to make the save.

Get involved

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BBC Radio 5 live

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Matthew, a Manchester United fan, says: "Angel Di Maria does not look like a player worth £60 million."

Pat, a Nottingham Forest fan, says of Stuart Pearce: "His position is untenable, he has got to resign."

While Robbie says Liverpool could finish in the top four now that Daniel Sturridge is back from injury.

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Chelsea win a free-kick midway into the Manchester City half. The visitors have everyone back to defend it, but there's no need as Willian's floated effort is over everyone's heads and out of play.

Meanwhile, Frank Lampard has an army of helpers scurrying about trying to find him some boots in the City dugout. Is he about to come on?

John Murray

BBC Radio 5 live football correspondent at Stamford Bridge

"Frank Lampard is out warming up for Manchester City and he is getting a really good reception from the Chelsea fans close to him, which is really good to see. You may have seen photos of a Chelsea fan's banner labelling Lampard a traitor on social media, but I do feel that is very much out of step with the mood there is towards him from the Chelsea supporters."

This match may well have attracted a huge global audience but at the moment it will be testing the ability of those watching where it is late to stay awake. No-one is taking any risks, with the two teams just pawing at each other at the moment, trying to find or force a mistake to pounce on.

Reuters

Manchester City have found their rhythm again and have a couple of chances in quick succession. First, Kurt Zouma slides in to poke the ball away from the feet of James Milner and behind for a corner, Milner takes it and his ball to the near post is headed into the sidenetting by Nemanja Matic. Then, Thibaut Courtois needs to palm a Fernandinho effort over his own bar.

YELLOW CARD

AP

Nemanja Matic gallops forward like a gazelle but his run is swiftly ended by an outstretched boot from David Silva. The Manchester City midfielder is booked for his efforts.

Former Man City player Fred Eyre, BBC Radio Manchester

"City were about to go into half-time with their chins on their chests, but that goal by Silva on the stroke of the interval has boosted them. And they have started the second half very brightly indeed."

AFP

Frank Lampard heads off for a warm up and gets a fine ovation from the Chelsea fans as he does so, he applauds them in return. This game is surely set up for a late Lampard winner, isn't it?

KICK-OFF

PA

No changes for either side and we are back under way at Stamford Bridge.

Former Man City player Fred Eyre, BBC Radio Manchester

"That was an excellent half of football. Level terms is the fairest scoreline. These are two very good, committed sides. I thought that, Chelsea being Chelsea, 1-0 would be the scoreline at the interval, but a mistake by Courtois and things are even."

John Murray

BBC Radio 5 live football correspondent at Stamford Bridge

"Chelsea and Manchester City showed each other plenty of respect over the course of that first half but then came the goals. In the 41st minute, Eden Hazard was there ahead of Bacary Sagna to fire across the box, and Lois Remy side footed home. It looked as though all was going to plan for Jose Mourinho, but moments later Thibaut Courtois came and flapped for a Jesus Navas cross and David Silva, sliding in, made it 1-1. And I think that is about fair enough. If anything City have looked the more threatening on the counter attack."

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Fred: Feel sorry for Thibaut Courtois. He's been at his best for Chelsea over the last few games and a bit of bad luck has gone against him.

Toothfairy: From absolute boredom at Stamford Bridge to having two goals in 180 seconds. A winner looms conspicuously.

Shuja Andrabi: Chelsea and Man City working hard to set it up perfectly for Frank Lampard...

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Opta

There was not much between the two sides in that half, with Manchester City just about shading it. They had three shots on target, compared to Chelsea's two.

The Blues have won just two of their last nine matches with City when the scores have been level at half-time, and I can't see them risking too much to try and get a winner. It was an explosive end to the half, but I can see things becoming cagey again after the restart.

Chief football writer Phil McNulty at Stamford Bridge

"Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho turned away in disgust as David Silva touched in Sergio Aguero's shot - he will be so frustrated at his side conceding their lead so close to half-time having made the breakthrough. Dreadful error from the normally reliable Thibaut Courtois has left this one beautifully balanced."

HALF-TIME

Steve Wilson

BBC Match of the Day commentator at Stamford Bridge

"It is a half that exploded with Loic Remy's goal before David Silva equalised and at half-time it is 1-1."

'Shocking keeping from Courtois'

Former Man City player Fred Eyre, BBC Radio Manchester

"Great cross from Navas and a cool calculated strike from Aguero, with Silva latching on. But it was shocking keeping from Courtois, who came shooting off his line and spread himself like a starfish. But the ball was at the feet of a lethal finisher in Aguero, and Man City are back on level terms. A rush of blood from Courtois and Chelsea have paid the penalty.

"I think 1-1- as a scoreline is about right, as there has been nothing between the two teams."

Former Wales international Robbie Savage

BBC Radio 5 live

"It was Sergio Aguero with the cross-shot but David Silva is there with the final touch in the right place at the right time. That is game on now."

GOAL

AFP

Boy do we have a game on our hands here! Manchester City equalise minutes after Chelsea opened the scoring as Jesus Navas crosses into the area, Thibaut Courtois is off his line to try and clear but the ball drops to the feet of Sergio Aguero, on the edge of the area, and he shoots goalwards where David Silva sticks out a foot to divert it into the net.

The whole move started from a throw-in, but did the ball definitely go out of play? Some Chelsea players appear to think it didn't.

AFP

Former Man City player Fred Eyre, BBC Radio Manchester

"The positional play of Bacary Sagna meant he was ball-watching as the move built up. Consequently, the ball was able to be swung in over his head and it fired across the goal, for Loic Remy to finish from four yards. A good goal by Remy, but a great ball in from Hazard."

GOAL

Getty Images

A beautiful goal! Branislav Ivanovic has had a few shaky moments at the back in this game but he more than makes up for it by starting a move that results in the opener. He crosses deep to Eden Hazard, whose low ball across the face of goal is side-footed in by Loic Remy. Game on.

AP

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606 phone-in

BBC Radio 5 live

Over on BBC Radio 5 live, 606 is just getting under way. Lines are open and Jason Mohammad and Robbie Savage are taking your calls.

Call 0500 909 693, text 85058, or it's @bbc606 on Twitter.

Text us on 81111

Gareth, Harpenden: This should be the game when Oscar steps into Cesc Fabregas' quarterback passing metronome. The fact that Jose Mourinho has partnered Ramires with Nemanja Matic in central midfield suggests he does not quite trust him to do that role justice though (yet).

Tom W: Sergio Aguero usually comes back to form from injury so quickly, but he would never have missed that in November.

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Former Man City player Fred Eyre, BBC Radio Manchester

"There is nothing between these two teams. Chelsea are in the slight ascendancy, but over the whole half City have been equal to anything and have been the aggressors at many points. This is very, very even."

Opta

Gael Clichy has been the busiest player on the pitch so far in this game. He is hugging that left touchline and getting forward as often as possible but has not neglected his defensive duties and has done well so far to nullify the threat of Eden Hazard, who has only twice got into the City final third.

Chief football writer Phil McNulty at Stamford Bridge

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"Synchronised heads in hands for Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini and Sergio Aguero after the striker wasted the game's best chance. Maybe a bit ring rusty after his injury - but you would have back the Argentine to score that after breaking clear from John Terry."

Former Man City player Fred Eyre, BBC Radio Manchester

"Ring rust from Aguero. He puts those in the back of the net 99 times out of 100 when he's fully fit. He was onto the ball in a flash and took it away from the defenders, and he hit it across the goalkeeper. It usually nestles in the far post, but this time it trickled just past. It was a good chance in anyone's language, but in Sergio Aguero's language it was a golden chance."

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Ben, Huddersfield: We know how much quality there still is on display here, but with both teams missing their most influential talents (Yaya Toure, Diego Costa, Cesc Fabegas) the game is lacking something. Needs a spark from somewhere.

Herbie, Abergavenny: This game is all about momentum. If Chelsea win, they carry it into the rest of the season, and if City do, then they have it. A big game.

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CLOSE!

What a chance for Manchester City!

PA

Moments after Chelsea players appealed for a penalty for a possible Martin Demichelis handball, Sergio Aguero is on to the subsequent long clearance, John Terry misjudges the bounce to put the City striker through on goal but he strokes his shot just wide.

Chief football writer Phil McNulty at Stamford Bridge

"All a bit flat but Manchester City looking the more dangerous side. Still waiting for this one to take off."

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Hugh in France: Amazing that Manchester City are wearing blue. Time was a light blue away team had to change. Yet so many change now for no obvious reason.

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Getty Images

Loic Remy races away after pouncing on a moment of hesitation by Vincent Kompany. The Chelsea striker gets into the City area, cuts the ball back for Eden Hazard, who dummies the ball and it runs through to Oscar and his first-time strike is held by Joe Hart. Better from Chelsea.

James Milner tries to bulldoze his way through Kurt Zouma and Branslav Ivanovic, he doesn't quite succeed but wins a corner. Milner's delivery is flicked on and Sergio Aguero and Cesar Azpilicueta have their arms wrapped around each other as they both tumble to the ground. Aguero wants a penalty but nothing is given.

Former Man City player Fred Eyre, BBC Radio Manchester

"Willian's having an increasing influence on the game, whereas David Silva is not. He is being completely shackled by Matic, which could prove a big problem for Man City as Silva is their most creative player."

CLOSE!

AFP

Branislav Ivanovic has been very un-Branislav Ivanovic-like so far as another error lets in Manchester City. The Chelsea defender takes too long to clear and James Milner picks the ball from his feet, slides a pass to Sergio Aguero whose angled drive is parried by Thibaut Courtois.

Reuters

The tempo has gone down after a bright start by Manchester City. After a couple of Chelsea attacks, the away side have retreated a little and it has all become a little cagey.

Former Man City wing-half Fred Eyre, BBC Radio Manchester

"Chelsea have eased their way back into the game. John Terry has been at the heart of a defence that has been under a bit of strain but without showing any sign of wilting. And now they're starting to apply some pressure of their own."

A Chelsea attack breaks down and Manchester City race up the other end as Sergio Aguero gets into the box. He is about to pull the trigger but Kurt Zouma times his tackle to perfection and snuffs out the danger.

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Getty Images

Iain Clark: Man City starting well. Cesc Fabregas missing will hurt more than Diego Costa.

ApSam: Chelsea look a bit jaded after midweek extra-time. Oscar and Branislav Ivanovic already being lazy.

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Getty Images

Eden Hazard has his first chance to test Manchester City's soft underbelly that is their central defence as he tries to wiggle into the middle from out wide. City are forced to thump the ball behind for a corner, which John Terry heads wide.

Chief football writer Phil McNulty at Stamford Bridge

"Little bit of an "us against the world" feel among the crowd here at Stamford Bridge tonight as the name of suspended leading scorer Diego Costa rings out repeatedly and there is some over-exaggerated anger about a couple of early decisions going against Jose Mourinho's side. If there is a sense of injustice about the suspension to Costa following his three-game ban for a stamp on Liverpool's Emre Can, it is a view that will not get much sympathy outside Stamford Bridge.

"As for Mourinho, he is visibly pumped up and jumped out of his technical area to tell Eden Hazard to get back to his feet quickly after he was bundled off the ball."

Former Man City wing-half Fred Eyre, BBC Radio Manchester

Getty Images

"It's a frightening pace at which this game is being played. But City are the better side. Jose Mourinho has hardly stirred from the bench yet. He must be in one of his sombre moods..."

Manchester City come forward again as Gael Clichy passes to David Silva, who puts too much pace on the return ball and it runs out of play wide left. Clichy would have been in and Silva knows he should have done better, rubbing his head in frustration.

CLOSE!

This is not the game to be making mistakes in and Branislav Ivanovic is almost punished as he carelessly gifts possession to Manchester City on the edge of his own area and Jesus Navas feeds a pass to Fernandinho, whose deflected strike flies just wide of the far post.

Former Man City wing-half Fred Eyre, BBC Radio Manchester

"I hear 650 million people round the world are watching this game. Such theatre. I don't understand the exclusion of Pablo Zabaleta. It doesn't make sense to me at all. But hopefully by the end of the game I'll be sitting here saying Mr Pellegrini got that selection spot on, that it was a stroke of genius, and that's why he's the City manager.

"And to be fair, City have started brilliantly. Several stinging one-touch passes. Great start."

Getty Images

Four minutes Jose Mourinho managed to stay sat down. He is up and patrolling his technical area as the two sides tussle on the pitch. Neither team is allowing the other much time on the ball, with the player in possession quickly surrounded by two or three opponents.

Jose v Manuel

Former Tottenham striker Garth Crooks, Final Score

"Jose Mourinho is professional enough and mature enough to look beyond his feud with Manuel Pellegrini. He is a winner, and to play for him must be a pleasure. But if Pellegrini's team win tonight it will really add some spice to this title chase."

BBC Radio Manchester at Stamford Bridge

Getty Images

Former Manchester City striker Shaun Goater has just popped up on BBC Radio Manchester at Stamford Bridge: "I sat down, I looked around and I saw a sign that said Bermuda Blues. I was delighted... until I saw it was a Chelsea flag!"

Manchester City are immediately on the attack as Thibaut Courtois bats away Jesus Navas' early strike. Setting the tone for the game ahead?

The injured Cesc Fabregas, sporting a stunningly bad green bobble hat, is in the stands, sat alongside Diego Costa.

KICK-OFF

This is the big one, and we are under way.

Manuel Pellegrini offers a hand to Jose Mourinho, who shakes it. It is probably fair to say the two are not the best of friends, but keep everything civil ahead of kick-off.

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James Wall: Frank Lampard is the greatest player Chelsea have ever had. Any 'fan' that boos him should be banned from the ground for life.

Rajan Paudel: It will be an awkward moment if Lampard come on and scores in the second half to ruin Chelsea's day in front of so many Chelsea fans.

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Jose Mourinho wanders out of the tunnel, gives a thumbs up to some Chelsea fans near the dugout and takes his seat. The two teams are lined up in the tunnel, ready to go out.

Vincent Kompany looking into the eyes of each and every one of his team-mates, Chelsea skipper John Terry, fully focused on the task at hand, looks straight ahead.

Heart says City, brain says Chelsea

Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown

Final Score

"As a neutral you want Manchester City to win this, because otherwise it looks like Chelsea will run away with the title. But I just feel Chelsea will move on through the gears now after making it to the League Cup final. Yes there are players out for Chelsea - Cesc Fabregas and Diego Costa - but there is still enough energy in the squad, and City are depleted too, with Yaya Toure at the Africa Cup of Nations."

City "will get something"

Former Tottenham striker Garth Crooks, Final Score

"I'm going for a draw tonight. I think City will get something at Stamford Bridge."

Chief football writer Phil McNulty at Stamford Bridge

"The world will be watching Stamford Bridge today. There are 26 television crews and commentary teams from around the globe here at Chelsea, eclipsing the Premier League record of 19 when Manchester City played Manchester United back in 2012."

Which will it be?

This is how the table will look if Chelsea win...

BBC

...and this is how it will look if Manchester City win...

Man City

...a draw and the gap will remain at five points.

What will it be come the end of 90 minutes?

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Exclusive: It would be a tragedy for the Premier League if Chelsea opened an eight-point gap. Come on Manchester City! (from a Liverpool supporter)

Joshua Kwanya: Missing Cesc Fabregas in this one is a big blow.

Kahill: That Chelsea bench though... Ruben Loftus-Cheek to score the winner!

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Ben Smith

BBC Sport

"A record 26 broadcasters at Stamford Bridge for Chelsea v Manchester City. Estimated global audience: 650m."

How big is this game? Well Kazakhstan TV have apparently sent a commentary team for this one. Global.

Steve Wilson

BBC Match of the Day commentator

"Chelsea aren't exactly tearing up trees just now.

"Their League Cup semi-final win over Liverpool was hard won, laced with a little good fortune, and came at a cost; Branislav Ivanovic, Cesc Fabregas and Filipe Luis were among the wounded and Diego Costa is on the FA's naughty step.

"Taking five points from their last four league games has been careless from City, undoing the good work of December and allowing Chelsea to reopen a gap at the top.

"If Chelsea win and extend that advantage to eight points, no doubt there'll be a school of thought intent on handing Jose Mourinho the title already."

So is this to be the game that will define the title race?

Manuel Pellegrini does not think so, with the Manchester City boss saying pre-match: "Neither one of the teams can be sure that the winner is the champion as there are 45 more points to play for after today."

True enough, but if Chelsea win then an eight-point deficit will be difficult to grind down...

BBC Radio 5 live

Former Blackburn and Chelsea striker Chris Sutton on BBC Radio 5 live: "Frank Lampard has been an incredible player. The goals he has scored have been unbelievable and the fact he can still have an influence is great.

"No one can replace Frank Lampard's goals at Chelsea"

Frank Lampard makes his first return to Stamford Bridge since leaving the club in the summer when Manchester City visit on Saturday. Will he still be a Blues hero come the final whistle?

PA

Although, not every Chelsea fan feels quite the same as those in the previous entry...

"Lampard - forever in our hearts"

The teams are being read out over the speakers and Frank Lampard's name gets a cheer from the home fans who are inside Stamford Bridge at the moment. A group of Chelsea fans also stretch out a banner with the words "Frank Lampard, forever in our hearts". Aww, that's nice.

I wonder if the sentiment will remain if he scores today? Lampard averages a Premier League goal every 79 minutes so far this season - better than Sergio Aguero or Diego Costa.

Fancy him to bag a late winner?

"City have to avoid defeat"

Former Wales striker John Hartson

"If Chelsea win today they will be eight points clear with 15 games to go. That would put them in a really strong position. They would have to lose three out of their remaining games, to give Manchester City any chance of catching them. Can you see Chelsea doing that? I'm not so sure. City have to avoid defeat today at the very least."

Chelsea are top, Manchester City are second. But if only we had a handy graphic to show exactly what their respective league records are and how they stand against each other... Oh wait, hang on... Ta da!

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Chief football writer Phil McNulty at Stamford Bridge

"The Premier League game of the season so far - and Chelsea will feel they would take a giant stride towards the title if they get the win that would give them an eight-point lead over Manchester City.

"Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has opted for Loic Remy instead of Didier Drogba in attack in place of suspended leading scorer Diego Costa, who is serving a three-match ban for stamping on Liverpool's Emre Can in the Capital One Cup semi-final in midweek.

"Some surprise at the Manchester City line-up, which sees Bacary Sagna start and Pablo Zabaleta on the bench."

Savage says...

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"I have said since before the season started that Chelsea are the best team in the Premier League and I expect them to prove it on Saturday." Not my words, but the words of BBC columnist Robbie Savage. Here are some more of his thoughts on today's game...

"It is not a game Chelsea need to win, because they are already five points clear, but I think Mourinho will want to make a statement by beating City. For me, the result is more important for Pellegrini because his predecessor Roberto Mancini was sacked after a trophyless season in 2012-13.

"City are already out of both domestic cups and if they lose this weekend, as I expect them to, then the title race is effectively over. That would mean Pellegrini might have to win the Champions League to keep his job."

Silva v Hazard

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Now I like David Silva... and I like Eden Hazard. But which one is better? There's only one to decide it... a video analysis by BBC football analyst Pat Nevin.

And if it's still level after that, a fight!

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Gambeano Snitch: Kurt Zouma over Gary Cahill? I fancy Sergio Aguero to bag a couple today.

James Watt: As a Chelsea fan, looking at our bench we look weak. The only game changer is Drogba. Are Schurrle and Salah on their way out?

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Super Frank

BBC Sport

Chief football writer Phil McNulty at Stamford Bridge

No "welcome back" from Jose Mourinho for Frank Lampard as he returns to Chelsea with Manchester City today. Some very short and sweet programme notes end with a rather emotional: "I love this game, I love these players and I love this club. Come on Chelsea!

John Terry does not forget his old team-mate, however, saying: "Welcome back to Frank Lampard today, a Chelsea legend and a huge part of our history. In terms of consistency him, Petr (Cech), Dids (Drogba) are up there as the best I've played with at this club - he was brilliant for us, year after year, over the 13 seasons he had at Chelsea."

How much of a miss is Yaya Toure?

BBC Radio 5 live

Former Everton assistant manager Steve Round on BBC Radio 5 live: "Yaya Toure's a powerful and direct player and that's what gets Manchester City the wins.

"I saw Yaya against Sunderland a few weeks ago and he scored a wonderful goal. Having him missing is a massive blow for City. It's like there are two of him on the pitch at times!"

How much of a miss is Yaya Toure?

BBC Radio 5 live

Former Blackburn and Chelsea striker Chris Sutton on BBC Radio 5 live: "Yaya Toure is a massive threat so he's going to be incredibly difficult to replace for City in this game.

"And looking further ahead, who would they replace him with if he was to leave? There's nobody else out there."

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Chelsea keeper Petr Cech: The big game is coming... are you ready?

A title-defining match?

It's first versus second in the Premier League...

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...Jose Mourinho versus Manuel Pellegrini...

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...and the return of this chap to Stamford Bridge...

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...all set for what is already shaping up to be a classic?

LINE-UPS

In the absence of the suspended Diego Costa, Loic Remy starts up front for Chelsea. Cesc Fabregas is injured and so Ramires comes into midfield. Kurt Zouma continues at the back in place of Gary Cahill. Branislav Ivanovic has recovered from the knock he received against Liverpool midweek and starts.

Manchester City pair Yaya Toure and Wilfried Bony are both unavailable as a result of their involvement in the Africa Cup of Nations. Pablo Zabaleta is benched and so Bacary Sagna starts at right-back in the only change from the 2-0 loss to Arsenal. Former Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard is on the bench.

Chelsea starting XI: Courtois, Ivanovic, Zouma, Terry, Azpilicueta, Ramires, Matic, Willian, Oscar, Hazard, Remy.

Manchester City starting XI: Hart, Sagna, Kompany, Demichelis, Clichy, Navas, Fernando, Fernandinho, Milner, Silva, Aguero.

Will Diego incident Costa Chelsea?

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It was inevitable there would be some sort of off-field talking point(s) coming into this game. It is a major fixture. And Jose Mourinho is involved. The Chelsea boss' ire may have come to a head this week over the Football Association's banning of Diego Costa for a stamp on Emre Can during the Capital One Cup semi-final second leg at Anfield.

But the response - which saw Chelsea cancel Thursday's news conference for today's game - has its roots in the Chelsea boss' belief of a "campaign" to influence referees' decisions against his side. A belief that has led to him being fined by the FA. So, is there a campaign against Chelsea? You might want to read our feature on the matter before making your mind up.

Let's get ready to rumble...

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Here we go then, the big one! Table-topping Chelsea take on second-placed Manchester City in a game that could well end up defining this Premier League season. Thankfully, there's been nothing going on to distract us from the game. We can focus our attention entirely on the action on the pitch, no injuries to key players, no disciplinary shenanigans.... What's that? Oh...