Mata’s back as Belgian flyer Eden hazard misses out with an injury…
Chelsea predicted lineup v Steaua Bucharest:
With Eden Hazard injured, Juan Mata will come straight into the starting XI after his impressive cameo against Tottenham on Saturday. He will dovetail with first-choice no.10 Oscar, and German wing-forward Andre Schurrle in the attacking midfield positions.
Fernando Torres should start ahead of Samuel Eto’o up top, because of the striker’s tenacious performance against Spurs, and the fact that he is suspended for the weekend’s Premier League fixture anyway.
First-choice fullbacks Branislav Ivanovic and Ashley Cole will definitely start, with David Luiz and John terry likely to continue their partnership at the back, meaning Gary Cahill will remain on the bench.
Brazilian battler Ramires returns from suspension, and will provide the platform from which Frank Lampard will be allowed to roam forward.
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