Cesar Azpilcueta will play at left back at the Emirates, with Ashley Cole again sidelined.

But there is no question of the England defender missing out just because he reportedly attended a Christmas party with Arsenal players this week, says Jose Mourinho.

“I am a manager not a father and I cannot control what they do when they are not with me,” said the Chelsea boss.

“I don't want to comment, not even to Ashley Cole. It was his free night and the next morning we didn't train so I have no right to comment. I have my opinion that I keep to myself.”

Although that appears to exonerate Cole to an extent, Mourinho says Azpilcueta has recovered from a knock and will play in a back four that includes Branislav Ivanovic on the right, with John Terry in the centre, partnered by either Gary Cahill or David Luiz.

The Chelsea boss has favoured the Spaniard in recent weeks and made it clear that he is playing too well to leave out - even at the expense of Cole.