Stuart is aiming to give old side Blues

When Graham Stuart left Chelsea for Everton 10 years ago he was going to a bigger club in search of big prizes. No one would voluntarily take such a career path these days.

Chelsea have been completely transformed. They boast a redeveloped stadium, a leisure complex and, most importantly, a team capable of winning the Premiership. And unlike in Stuart's day, there's no sock shortage.

He said: "There's been an awful lot of changes since I was there. Everton were a bigger club in those days but no one would leave Chelsea now.

"They're contenders for the title and I'd like to see them win it. The club have changed beyond belief. The facilities are much better. We used to fight over kit when I was there."

Chelsea manager Claudio Ranieri today delivered his Christmas message to his players: "The season starts here."

Ranieri's side suffered a dramatic New Year slump last term and he is determined to avoid a repeat performance this time round.

He said: "It's not important being at the top now - it's important in May. Last season we went down the table after Christmas, so this season after Christmas is a new season."

Charlton's Mark Fish has recovered from injury but is expected to start on the bench. Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink is back for Chelsea after serving a ban but Eidur Gudjohnsen, Juan Sebastian Veron and Emmanuel Petit are doubts through injury.