Preview: Chelsea v West Ham

Gianfranco Zola's side is boosted by the return of Benni McCarthy. The South African striker has recovered from a knee injury and is pushing for a place in the squad.

He could be joined by Danny Gabbidon, who came through an hour in Monday's friendly against San Jose Earthquakes unscathed. The Welshman could replace James Tomkins at centre back.

Kieron Dyer also played in that game and could be in line for his first start since December. Striker Frank Nouble has returned from a loan spell at West Brom and could feature in the squad.

On the debit side Julien Faubert is struggling with a muscle injury which saw him substituted against Bolton, while Herita Ilunga is still a doubt with a tendon problem.

Mark Noble will not feature as he continues to recover from an arm injury sustained against Manchester United two weeks ago.

And defender Manuel Da Costa is ruled out as he starts a three match ban for being sent off in a recent reserve game.

It will be another day of reunions at the Bridge, with the Irons management duo of Zola and Steve Clarke returning to the club they both played for with distinction, while Carlton Cole and Scott Parker also played for the Blues.

Chelsea will include ex-Hammers Frank Lampard and Joe Cole in their squad, as well as a former West Ham Academy player in John Terry.

Last season the Irons earned a point at Stamford Bridge with a 1-1 draw, taking the lead through Craig Bellamy before Nicolas Anleka levelled matters.

The sides also drew 1-1 last December at Upton Park, but the Irons hopes of at least another point could be slim if Didier Drogba and co remember to wear their shooting boots.

West Ham (from): Green, Stech, Ilunga, Spector, Upson, Gabbidon, Daprela, Tomkins, N'Gala, Kovac, Dyer, Parker, Behrami, Collison, Stanislas, Ilan, Franco, Cole, McCarthy, Nouble, Diamanti, Mido.

Venue: Stamford Bridge

Kick off: 3pm

Referee: Mark Clattenburg

Transport: Nearest Tube station is Fulham Broadway, on the District line. The line is suspended between Earl's Court and Whitechapel so fans are advised to use replacement bus services. The Jubilee line is also suspended.