Deposed captain Gallas faces Chelsea

Chelsea were missing England midfielder Joe Cole for this afternoon’s Premier League clash with title rivals Arsenal at Stamford Bridge.

Deco was recalled following suspension in Europe during the week, as Florent Malouda made way.

Full-back Ashley Cole and striker Nicolas Anelka faced their former club, but striker Didier Drogba was banned.

The Gunners, some 10 points off the pace, were able to welcome back Togo striker Emmanuel Adebayor and France winger Samir Nasri from injury.

Deposed captain William Gallas lined up in defence to play against his old team.

Chelsea: Cech, Bosingwa, Ivanovic, Terry, Ashley Cole, Mikel, Deco, Ballack, Lampard, Kalou, Anelka.

Subs: Hilario, Malouda, Bridge, Ferreira, Mineiro, Alex, Stoch.

Arsenal: Almunia, Sagna, Gallas, Djourou, Clichy, Denilson, Fabregas, Song Billong, Nasri, Adebayor, Van Persie.

Subs: Fabianski, Vela, Ramsey, Silvestre, Wilshere, Bendtner, Gibbs.

Referee: Mike Dean (Wirral)