Blues to settle for replica May 06 2008
Chelsea are unlikely to complain about not being awarded the genuine Premier League trophy if they pip Manchester United to the title on Sunday.
The clubs are level on points going into their final league fixtures of the season, against Wigan and Bolton respectively, the first time the top two have been deadlocked at this stage since 1968.
The Premier League on Tuesday confirmed there will be versions of the trophy at both the JJB Stadium and Stamford Bridge, but it is understood the genuine article will be at Wigan, with the Blues having to make do with a replica.
A Premier League spokesman said: "The practical difficulties of the title race going into the final day of the season means that a Barclays Premier League trophy will be on standby at both the JJB Stadium and Stamford Bridge."
The west Londoners are content that United, as defending champions, have the real trophy at their game.
However, it is thought the decision is based solely on the Red Devils being more likely to win the title because of their superior goal difference.
Avram Grant's side must better United's result to deny them back-to-back championships.
This year is the first time the destiny of the title has not been decided before the final day since Sir Alex Ferguson's team pipped Arsenal by a point in 1999.
On that occasion, there were versions of the Premier League trophy at both Old Trafford and Highbury, although it is understood the genuine article was in Manchester, with a replica on standby in North London.