Ashley Cole is set to be recalled to the Chelsea line up for this evening’s Capital One Cup quarter final clash with Sunderland at the Stadium of Light.
Branislav Ivanovic is suspended, so Cesar Azpilicueta is expected to switch to right back allowing Cole to return on the left.
Manager Jose Mourinho is expected to further rotate his squad with Monday evening’s trip to Premier League leaders Arsenal in mind.
This will be the second time the Blues have played the Mackems on their own patch in the space of two weeks, after the edged past them in a seven goal thriller in the league on December 4th.
Elsewhere, the club have been linked with a move for Inter Milan defender Andrea Ranocchia when the transfer window reopens next month, according to the Mirror.
The Italy international has played in all but three of his side’s league games this season, but has been linked with a move away, with Tottenham Hotspur, Arsenal and Manchester United also reportedly interested.
Chelsea are also interested in securing the services of Inter midfielder Fredy Guarin, the Metro understands.
The club reportedly made an offer for the Colombian last week in an attempt to beat Manchester United to his signature.