Lampard to face Reds

Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti expects Frank Lampard to be available for their weekend clash with the Liverpool.

The influential 32-year-old England international has missed the club's last 11 matches with a groin injury.

The Blues have maintained their fine form even without Lampard, but they have now received a shot in the arm ahead of the Sunday's mouth-watering trip to the Anfield.

Ancelotti is ruling Lampard out of featuring in the Wednesday's UEFA Champions League clash with Spartak Moscow as the fixture is too soon.

The Italian is relishing having the creative midfielder back among his ranks, stating he is likely to come straight into his starting XI.

Lampard out of Euro clash

FRANK LAMPARD will miss the Chelsea's Champions League showdown with Marseille tomorrow.

The England midfielder, 32, is expected to be sidelined for a further two weeks while he recovers from the hernia surgery.

Lampard has missed five matches since the operation on August 31 and Blues boss Carlo Ancelotti admits the midfielder needs to rest.

Ancelotti said: "Lampard can't play on Tuesday. We need to have more time than we expected for his rest.

"In a few days there will be an international break and he will be ready for the first game after the break.

"He didn't play with us so I don't think he is able to play for the national team."

Didier Drogba will not feature against his former team as he sits out the last game of a two-match ban.

Chelsea are also without injured Salomon Kalou (thigh) and Yossi Benayoun (calf) but Gael Kakuta has recovered from his back injury.