Carvalho returns for semi-final

Chelsea defender Ricardo Carvalho returned from suspension for tonight’s Carling Cup semi-final first leg against Everton.

Florent Malouda was a surprise inclusion in the Blues’ starting line-up after recovering from his knee injury earlier than expected.

Steve Sidwell dropped to the bench to make room for Malouda while Wayne Bridge was preferred to Ashley Cole at left-back.

Everton recalled big guns Tim Howard, Tim Cahill and Phil Neville, who all missed the FA Cup defeat by Oldham, while Joseph Yobo was passed fit following his foot problem.

Steven Pienaar was unavailable after FIFA ruled he must report for South Africa duty.

Chelsea: Hilario, Belletti, Alex, Carvalho, Bridge, Wright-Phillips, Obi, Ballack, Malouda, Joe Cole, Pizarro.

Subs: Cudicini, Sidwell, Ferreira, Ben-Haim, Sahar.

Everton: Howard, Hibbert, Yobo, Jagielka, Lescott, Cahill, Neville, Carsley, McFadden, Johnson, Yakubu.

Subs: Wessels, Gravesen, Vaughan, Nuno Valente, Anichebe.

Referee: Peter Walton (Northamptonshire).