Deco admits Chelsea can rattle Liverpool's title chances by beating them this weekend.

"This game won't decide the title. Not now, at this early stage," said the Portuguese master. "But it is very important for the championship because if we win then we stay top and we open up a gap on Liverpool."

Chelsea are also defending their remarkable 86-game unbeaten home record in the league.

Deco added: "It's important to keep the victories going and the game against Liverpool is crucial, especially with the home record we have."