Cole back to take on United

Ashley Cole is back from his European suspension as Chelsea take on Premier League champions Manchester United on Sunday seeking to strengthen their claim for Champions League football next term.

Eden Hazard came off as a precaution in last night’s Europa League semi-final defeat of Basle and could drop to the bench as Rafael Benitez faces a selection balancing act once again, with Wednesday’s crucial clash with Tottenham also a consideration.

Only Oriol Romeu (knee) is a definite absentee, with striker Demba Ba available again after being cup-tied against the Swiss champions.

Provisional squad: Cech, Turnbull, Hilario, Cole, Ivanovic, Bertrand, Luiz, Terry, Cahill, Azpilicueta, Ramires, Oscar, Mata, Mikel, Moses, Lampard, Hazard, Torres, Benayoun, Marin, Ake, Ferreira, Ba.