New Chelsea boss Avram Grant faces his first Champions League home tie when his team entertain German side Schalke tonight. Click here for the latest odds!

Group A
Kick-off: 19:45 (BST)

Marseille coach Erik Gerets believes the spirit within his squad to be “even better” than it was before their shock 1-0 win at Liverpool on Matchday 2.

Victory over the 2004 Champions League winners would take them five points clear at the summit and Gerets feels his team are well placed to do just that.

“We’re up against one of the best outfits in Europe and we respect them, but we don’t fear them,” he said. “I’d say the spirit here is even better than it was before we played Liverpool, because now we’ve seen we can create surprises in the [UEFA] Champions League.”

Gerets is aware that Porto will provide a tough challenge, however, particularly since the visitors know an away win would take them top.

“It’s going to be difficult but even difficult things can be achieved,” he said. “Porto’s style of play is well-known: it’s all about good technique, speed and a solid defence. They also have individuals like Ricardo Quaresma who are capable of turning a game, but we’ll have our own chances. The most important thing is not to lose.”

Gerets is disappointed to lose experienced defender Julien Rodriguez to a thigh injury in Sunday’s 1-0 triumph over Lens. Karim Ziani also picked up a knock in that encounter, to join Samir Nasri and goalkeeper Cedric Carrasso on the sidelines, but left-back Taye Taiwo returns after suspension.

Porto coach Jesualdo Ferreira promised to stick to his tried and trusted strategy.

“We might make some minor changes but overall our tactics will be the same as ever,” he said. That will mean a three-man midfield, with wide men Quaresma and Tarik Sektioui supporting lone striker Lisandro Lopez.

Full-backs Bosingwa and Fucile have been passed fit, while Helder Postiga returns from a knee injury to provide another option in attack.

“We have alternatives in every position,” added Ferreira. “But whoever plays we will respect Marseille. They’re a mythical team in a mythical stadium and they’ve achieved great things in the past.”

New Chelsea boss Avram Grant faces his first Champions League home tie when his team entertain German side Schalke tonight. Click here for the latest odds!