Leverkusen vs Chelsea Preview

Chelsea Football could clinch the top spot in their group in tonight's game against Bayer Leverkusen but the host will hope that the play to a draw to hold of Valencia for the knockout round

Leverkusen's Andre Schurrle was sidelined with influenza on Friday, but is expected to return to action for the Chelsea match. Karim Bellarabi and Hanno Balitsch are also anticipated to be left out of the matchday squad due to thigh problems. Long-term casualties Renato Augusto, Michael Ortega, Tranquillo Barnetta, and Rene Adler are all ruled out of the game due to knee injuries.

Didier Drogba returned to action for Chelsea on Sunday, having recovered from an elbow knock. He will be available for selection, as will Alex and John Obi Mikel, who have shaken off back problems. The big absentee from CFC's line-up is Michael Essien, who has been out since the preseason due to knee ligament damage.

                                                             Possible Starting line-up

BAYER LEVERKUSEN                                        CHELSEA

Leno
Castro, Friedrich, Toprak, Kadlec
Bender, Rolfes
Sam, Ballack, Schurrle
Kiessling
                                                                              Cech
                                                                              Ivanovic, Luiz, Terry, Cole
                                                                              Mikel
                                                                              Ramires, Lampard
                                                                             Mata, Drogba, Malouda