Chelsea star Malouda misses Liverpool showdown

Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed in-form forward Florent Malouda will miss Chelsea's Premier League trip to Liverpool on Sunday.



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Florent Malouda is one of the most devastating players in the Premier League

Malouda sat out the club's victory over Spartak Moscow in the Champions League on Wednesday after picking up an ankle injury against Blackburn the previous weekend.

It had been suggested that the France international would be fit for the trip to Anfield, but Ancelotti has revealed Malouda will not be in squad.

"Malouda has a twist on his ankle, not a big problem but he is not able to play against Liverpool, the week after yes," Ancelotti said.

Malouda is Chelsea's top scorer this season with seven goals in the Premier League, one more than Didier Drogba.

Frank Lampard is in contention after overcoming a setback following groin surgery. "We hope Frank can play," Ancelotti said.

Michael Essien and John Terry did not play in the win over Spartak but will in all probability return to face Roy Hodgson's Liverpool.

"John Terry I rested because he played a lot of games and I want to maintain the players' fitness," Ancelotti confirmed. "Essien had a little problem on his toe but will be fit for the game against Liverpool."