Fernando Torres has been recalled to Chelsea's starting lineup for tonight's opening Champions League match against Bayer Leverkusen.

The Spaniard will partner Daniel Sturridge in attack, while captain John Terry and Frank Lampard have been left out with the weekend's fixture against Manchester United in mind.

Former Blues midfielder Michael Ballack makes a return to Stamford Bridge after being selected in the heart of the Leverkusen midfield.

Chelsea: Cech; Bosingwa, Ivanovic, Luiz, Cole; Mikel, Meireles, Malouda, Mata; Sturridge, Torres.

Leverkusen: Leno; Reinartz, Castro, Toprak, Kadlec; Bender, Rolfes, Ballack, Sam, Schürrle; Kiessling.