Line-Ups: Defender returns to bench for Chelsea as Southampton are without forward

The Serbian defender was sidelined for some time including Blues’ last Premier League outing, the 4-0 win over Manchester United.

Cesc Fabregas was also missing last week and remains absent today.

Branislav Ivanovic Chelsea Southampton team news GETTY

Branislav Ivanovic

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Kurt Zouma is stepping up his recovery from a long-term knee injury but is not fit to feature.

Southampton winger Sofiane Boufal … after his stunning EFL Cup goal during the week.

Jay Rodriguez GETTY

Jay Rodriguez battles Theo Walcott

Jay Rodriguez … despite surfing concussion in that 1-0 win over Sunderland.

Ryan Bertrand was also a doubt ….

Antonio Conte Chelsea manager GETTY

Antonio Conte takes his Chelsea team to Southampton

Southampton: To Follow.

Subs: To Follow.

Chelsea: Courtois; Azpilicueta, David Luiz, Cahill; Moses, Kante, Matic, Alonso; Pedro, Diego Costa, Hazard.

Subs: To Follow.