Alex to start for Blues

Chelsea are without captain John Terry for tomorrow’s game at Birmingham in the Barclays Premier League but Brazilian defender Alex is available.

Terry has had treatment in Italy for a nerve problem in his right leg but is not ready to play against City.

However, Alex who still requires surgery on a knee problem, will start.

Midfielder Yury Zhirkov misses out through a calf injury. Florent Malouda will take his place on the left-side of midfield.

Michael Essien sits out the second match of his three-game ban.

Provisional squad: Cech, Bosingwa, Ivanovic, Alex, Obi, Ramires, Drogba, Anelka, Kalou, Malouda, Turnbull, Van Aanholt, McEachran, Borini, Bruma, Ferriera, Sturridge, Kakuta, Cole.