Carvalho may miss Everton trip

Chelsea coach Luiz Felipe Scolari is unlikely to have defender Ricardo Carvalho fit for Monday’s Barclays Premier League trip to Everton.

The Portugal defender is recovering from a knee injury, but Scolari may hold him back for the Boxing Day clash with West Brom at Stamford Bridge.

Michael Essien (knee) and Franco Di Santo (hamstring) are out, as Chelsea look to continue their 100% away record on Merseyside. Florent Malouda is doubtful with a thigh strain.

Provisional squad: Cech, Hilario, Cudicini, Belletti, Ferreira, Bosingwa, A Cole, Bridge, Lampard, Deco, Obi, Kalou, Stoch, Drogba, Anelka, Malouda, J Cole, Alex, Terry, Ivanovic.