The former AC Milan coach even goes so far as to suggest that the Italian game can learn from the Barclays Premier League, particularly when it comes to tackling fan violence and racism.

Ancelotti has guided the Blues to four straight wins and although Stoke have started the season in fine style, Chelsea will expect to continue their winning ways in the Potteries.

"People go to the stadium to see a spectacle," said Ancelotti.

"In Italy unfortunately it isn't like that.

"People there don't have this sense for spectacle. In Italy we still have violence, so I hope that in Italy it will change soon, and that people go to the stadium to see an exciting match, like in England, and to support their team - not using violence and racist taunts towards the players.

"It is something nice and interesting to see here [in England]," he added.

"I like it because all the stadiums are full and work very well. It's a very positive experience."

Meanwhile, Chelsea striker Didier Drogba claims his unselfish attitude in creating chances for other players does not get the credit it deserves.

The Ivory Coast international believes his work off the ball goes unnoticed at times and insists it is this work ethic, which is shared throughout the Chelsea camp, which will help the Blues to the Premier League title this term.

"I often sacrifice myself for the good of the team," Drogba said.

"I don't look at my scoring statistics. Have you ever seen any other great striker do as much defending as I do?

"We are very confident, and relaxed as well. Our team is solid and physically very strong."

Drogba is also full of praise for coach Ancelotti and Chelsea will approach the game with their dressing room spirit reinforced by FIFA's transfer ban.

The Blues have been banned from signing any new players in the next two transfer windows but Chelsea's players insist it will only make their desire for success even greater.

In the meantime, Drogba is delighted with the start they have made under Ancelotti, who replaced interim coach Guus Hiddink in the summer.

"Carlo Ancelotti is highly respected here, and the players regard him as one of us," said Drogba.

"That's why I consider the spirit within the camp to be really good."

Chelsea have a fresh injury concern over Portugal international Deco for the trip north. The Chelsea midfielder was forced out of action during Portugal's 1-0 win over Hungary.

Deco was substituted three minutes after the interval and Chelsea are currently waiting to assess the damage.

Joe Cole and Paulo Ferreira, who both enjoyed successful outings for the club in a practice match against Fulham in midweek, are not expected to be included in Ancelotti's squad.

The pair are almost fully fit after sustaining knee ligament injuries last season but need another two weeks before they reach match fitness.