Ashley Cole returns for Chelsea

Ashley Cole was restored to the Chelsea starting line-up and played against Arsenal for the first time since his acrimonious move from the Gunners in August.

Cole was one of four changes to the champions’ starting line-up, with captain John Terry – back from suspension – Claude Makelele and Geremi the other alterations from the team who beat Levski Sofia in midweek.

For Arsenal, Philippe Senderos played in defence in place of the suspended Kolo Toure, and Robin van Persie was preferred to Fredrik Ljungberg.

Chelsea: Hilario, Geremi, Carvalho, Terry, Ashley Cole, Essien, Ballack, Makelele, Lampard, Shevchenko, Drogba.

Subs: Hedman, Boulahrouz, Mikel, Robben, Wright-Phillips.

Arsenal: Lehmann, Eboue, Djourou, Senderos, Clichy, Hleb, Fabregas, Silva, Flamini, Van Persie, Adebayor.

Subs: Almunia, Ljungberg, Julio Baptista, Hoyte, Walcott.

Referee: A Wiley (Staffordshire)