Luiz Felipe Scolari [ Images ] will start life as Chelsea's [ Images ] new manager at home to FA Cup winners Portsmouth after the 2008-09 fixture list was released on Monday.

Manchester United [ Images ], who pipped Chelsea to the title on the final day last season, begin their title defence at home to Newcastle United.

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Third-placed Arsenal [ Images ] are at home to newly promoted West Bromwich Albion [ Images ] on the opening day while Liverpool travel to Sunderland.

Scolari, who was named as Chelsea's new manager while still involved with Portugal at Euro 2008 [ Images ], will get his chance to test himself against United manager Alex Ferguson [ Images ] when last season's Champions League [ Images ] finalists meet at Stamford Bridge [ Images ] on September 20.

Hull City, who will be playing in the top flight for the first time, face Fulham [ Images ] at home while Stoke City [ Images ], back among the elite for the first time since 1985, travel to Bolton Wanderers.

The season kicks off on August 16.