Jose Mourinho is unconcerned that the goalless draw at relegation-threatened Birmingham, combined with a 2-1 victory for Manchester United at Bolton, means the gap between the top two is now just seven points.

Stuttering Chelsea have won just one of their last five games on the road, while United have steamrollered their way to eight successive wins. At this rate, their showdown at Stamford Bridge on April 29 could have more than just bragging rights resting on it.

But a defiant Mourinho said: "I think United won't catch us still. We have three matches at home and three away. If we win the three at home, we are champions. We don't need even a point away."