John Obi Mikel has been named in Chelsea’s starting XI for the Premier League clash between the defending champions and Arsenal at the Emirates, starting from 1700 hours Nigerian time.

For the the fifth straight game in the top-flight, Nigeria international takes up the role of defensive midfielder alongside Serbia star Nemanja Matiä†.

As for Arsenal team news, Super Eagles striker Alex Iwobi will literally watch the game from the stands as he he has been omitted from the squad despite training with the squad on Saturday.

Prior to today’s encounter, the 19-year-old was included in the Gunners 18-man squad in their last 10 games across all competitions.

Arsenal Starting XI : Cech, Bellerin, Koscielny, Mertesacker, Monreal, Flamini, Ramsey, Campbell, Ozil, Walcott, Giroud

Chelsea Starting XI :  Courtois; Ivanovic, Zouma, Terry (c), Azpilicueta; Mikel, Matic; Willian, Fabregas, Oscar; Diego Costa.