*Delightful… Chelsea’s Nigerian midfielder John Mikel Obi (r) celebrate with team-mate Branislav Ivanovic after he scored the second goal for Chelsea in their English Premier League football match against Fulham at Stamford Bridge. It was Mikel ‘s second goal in his eight-year stay with the Blues. Photo AFP
By Abiodun Alade, @biodunpen
Nigeria midfielder John Mikel Obi will make his 250th start for Chelsea tonight as he partners Nemanja Matic in midfield against Stoke City.
Mikel joined Chelsea in the summer of 2006. He has won every major honour at club level with the Blues.
Thibaut Courtois returns in goal and Diego Costa, rested at Derby, leads the attack.
Cesc Fabregas is expected to again play in a more forward midfield position ahead of Nemanja Matic and John Mikel Obi, as in last Tuesday’s cup win. It is Mikel’s 250th start for Chelsea.
Cesar Azpilicueta is the left-back with Gary Cahill returning as John Terry’s partner.
For Stoke City, there are two changes from their draw against Palace. Marc Muniesa comes into defence in place of Marc Wilson and Marko Arnautovic is preferred to Mame Diouf on the left wing.
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