TEAM NEWS: David Luiz back in midfield for Chelsea against Aston Villa

23 Dec 2012 15:12:00

The Brazilian moves out of defence once more to make room for Gary Cahill as Ashley Cole and Eden Hazard also return to the Blues starting XI for the Villans' visit

David Luiz starts in midfield as Chelsea host Aston Villa in their first Premier League game after their trip to the Club World Cup.

The Brazilian moves up from defence as Gary Cahill returns at centre-back, with Eden Hazard and Ashley Cole also coming in as Rafa Benitez makes three changes from the team who beat Leeds United 5-1 in the Capital One Cup.

Oscar and Marko Marin are withdrawn to the bench, while Ryan Bertrand misses out with an injury. Eighteen-year-old defender Nathan Ake is also among the substitutes.

Villa are unchanged, Paul Lambert opting for the same formula that saw his side victorious at Liverpool on December 15.

Christian Benteke continues up front with Darren Bent still unavailable due to injury.

Chelsea: Cech; Azpilicueta, Ivanovic, Cahill, Cole; Luiz, Lampard; Moses, Mata, Hazard; Torres

Subs: Turnbull, Ramires, Oscar, Ferreira, Marin, Piazon, Ake

Aston Villa: Guzan; Lowton, Herd, Clark, Baker, Lichaj; Westwood, Bannan; Holman, Benteke, Weimann

Subs: Given, Bowery, El Ahmadi, Ireland, Bennett, Delph, Albrighton

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