Four stars to feature against Palace...

Last updated : 14 July 2010 By Paul Lagan

Michael Essien, Mikel, Petr Cech and Alex are all expected to play some part in Saturday's pre-season friendly against Crystal Palace.

Cech and Alex did not feature in the World Cup, Cech's side failed to qualify while Brazil failed to select Alex.

Both reported to the first day of pre-season training this month.

Essien and Mikel missed the World Cup due to injury.

But both are fit enough to take part in at least 60 minutes at Selhurst Park.

The four are the most senior players expected to have a run-out.

Chelsea's World Cup players are still not back from their holidays - many not due back until July 22.

Chelsea will feature some of the successful FA Youth Cup winning squad with 17-year-old Josh McEachran looking to nab a place on the bench at least following his excellent work while training with the first-team squad.

The midfielder is the most likely player to be given his chance this season.

Palace are likely to give another outing to Liam Bridcutt. The 21-year-old left-sided midfielder /defender was released by Chelsea in the summer and featured in Palace's 1-0 defeat away to Crawley last night.