Chelsea are without captain John Terry for the game at Birmingham in the Barclays Premier League but Brazilian defender Alex is available.
Terry has had treatment in Italy for a nerve problem in his right leg but is not ready to play against City.
However, Alex who still requires surgery on a knee problem, will start.
Midfielder Yury Zhirkov misses out through a calf injury. Florent Malouda will take his place on the left-side of midfield.
Michael Essien sits out the second match of his three-game ban.
Source: PA