Even in defeat, Chelsea showed against Manchester United on Sunday that they have enough quality to be considered strong title contenders, while winning the Champions League remains the priority for owner Roman Abramovich.
But with both Manchester clubs lighting up the Premier League and the battle for European glory as tough as ever, the domestic cup competitions could yet turn out to be Chelsea's best route to a trophy.
That makes the Carling Cup potentially important for the Blues, while matches against Chelsea are always important for their west London neighbours Fulham, who have every reason to feel upbeat.
Fulham are still awaiting their first Premier League win under manager Martin Jol but Sunday's fightback from 2-0 down to draw 2-2 with Manchester City could be the spark they needed to get their season going.
- Chelsea have won 42 and Fulham only 11 of the 75 previous matches between these clubs.
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They have been drawn against each other twice in the League Cup - in 1985 and 2004 - and Chelsea won both ties.
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The Blues have scored in 21 consecutive League Cup matches.
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They were knocked out at this stage by Newcastle last season - the second time in 10 years Chelsea have fallen at the first hurdle in this competition.
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Fulham have not been beyond the third round since reaching the quarter-finals in 2004-05.
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They have not knocked a fellow top-flight side out since beating Birmingham in 2004.