Blues’ Makelele under wraps for key clashes

CHELSEA veteran Claude Makelele will only play in the club’s most important games after reaching an agreement with manager Avram Grant over his selection.

The France midfielder has been a regular feature in the Chelsea side since joining from Real Madrid four years ago in a £16.6 million move.

However, Makelele has played just four Barclays Premier League games this season and the 34-year-old has admitted making a deal with Grant aimed at maintaining his fitness levels.

Makelele, contracted to Chelsea until 2009, said: “I have an agreement with my club coach. He knows how I manage my games and we have a well stocked squad.

“He needs me in our very important matches, but he rotates the squad for the easier fixtures. That suits me fine. I can have a rest and it is perfect for me.”

Chelsea’s next game in the Premier League is away to Derby on Saturday and Grant should have left-back Ashley Cole fit again for selection.

Captain John Terry is targeting a return against Rosenborg in the Champions League next week.

Meanwhile, midfielder Michael Ballack’s continued recovery from ankle problems is enough to raise hopes that he will be back in action before Christmas.

The German international has not played since undergoing ankle surgery at the end of last season.

Ballack is now confident that he will be back playing in December after returning to training.

Ballack said: “I am making excellent progress. I started training last week and December is looking like a good time (for a return).”