£6.0m backs: Liverpool vs Chelsea

With the season underway it is already looking like it may be dominated by at least 3 of the Big Four teams. The top teams will concede fewer goals and keep more clean sheets, so their defenders make fine choices. We looked recently at Arsenal defenders; but which team will provide better value in the backs between Liverpool and Chelsea?

Liverpool have gotten off to a shakey start. After an unconvincing win against Standard Liege, they escaped wth the points from their opening game at Sunderland - although only just. Both Murphy and Diouf had fine chances to score; likewise against Liege, Liverpool conceded a couple of golden opportunities that their opponents conspired to squander, including a saved penalty.

Part of the problem is the injuries they have in their backs. With Agger injured, Rafa the Gaffer handed Sami Hyypia a start. Arbeloa and Dossena, both at £6.0 million, represent the best value from 'Pool.

Chelsea played a five man midfield which limited Portsmouths chances. The club has looked solid in defence throughout their preseason and now thru the first game. Both Reina and Cech are excellent keepers, but at this stage it looks like Chelsea will concede fewer goals than Liverpool this season.

Chelsea defenders are mostly more expensive, but they do have one £6.0 million defender - Jose Bosingwa. A new arrival at the club during the off season, he gets around a lot and provided a couple of good crosses in the Portsmouth game, expect the occasional assist as well as many clean sheet bonuses. And against Wigan this week, Chelsea is not expected to struggle.

So for £6.0 million, Bosingwa makes a better choice at this stage than Arbeloa and Dossena.