TEAM NEWS: Terry & Benayoun for Chelsea's Europa League tie against Steaua

07-Mar-2013 10:14:00 PM

Rafael Benitez makes five changes to the team which secured a narrow 1-0 win over West Brom with Fernando Torres leading the line, while Stefan Nikolic misses out for the home side

John Terry and Yossi Benayoun have returned to the Chelsea starting line-up for the trip to face Steaua Bucharest in the Europa League last-16 first leg.

The Blues captain was an unused substitute in the narrow 1-0 Premier League win over West Brom at the weekend, but comes into the side from the off in one of five changes made by Rafa Benitez.

Elsewhere Ryan Bertrand replaces Ashley Cole at left-back, while John Obi Mikel and Benayoun come into midfield to support Fernando Torres.

For Steaua, Cristian Tanase retains his role in the starting line-up despite receiving a red card during the win over Gaz Metan at the weekend while, as expected, striker Stefan Nikolic misses out with a knee injury.

Steaua starting XI: Tatarusanu; Zukala, Pintilii, Chipciu, Tanase, Latovlevici, Rapa, Chiriches, Rusescu, Bourceanu, Popa.

Subs: Stanca, Gardos, Filip, Prepelita, Tatu, Iancu, Adi.

Chelsea starting XI: Cech, Ivanovic, Luiz, Terry, Bertrand; Mikel, Lampard; Benayoun, Oscar, Hazard; Torres.

Subs: Turnbull, Cole, Ferreira, Cahill, Azpilicueta, Marin, Mata.