Frank Lampard and Ashley Cole have not travelled to Slovakia with Chelsea for their Champions League opener against MSK Zilina on Wednesday.
The Slovakians make their debut in the group stages of the competition in this Group F encounter at Stadion Pod Dubnom, and will at least not have to contend with two England internationals, though John Terry is fit to take his place in the Blues’ side.
Lampard is still missing with the hernia knock that saw him miss the Premier League win over old side West Ham United at the weekend, while manager Carlo Ancelotti has opted to rest Cole.
Captain John Terry has shaken off a rib injury and will lead out the 2008 runners-up, but Didier Drogba is suspended after being sent off against Inter Milan in last season’s last 16 elimination. It is the third year in a row the striker has been banned at this stage for the Blues.
Nicolas Anelka should lead the line with Salomon Kalou for support, while Yuri Zhirkov is expected to stand in for Cole.
Argentine midfielder Sergio Javier Vittor may come into the Zilina side as they look to take a defensive approach against the Blues, with forward Tomas Oravec possibly set to make way.
Robert Jez could be the fulcrum of their team in midfield, with Gambian youngster Momodou Ceesay set to lead the attack.
Chelsea (from): Cech, Ferreira, Ivanovic, Terry, Alex, Essien, Benayoun, Ramires, Obi, Malouda, Zhirkov, Hilario, Turnbull, Kalou, Bruma, Sturridge, Anelka, Van Aanholt, Kakuta.