Chelsea Boss Jose Mourinho Boosted By John Terry's Return for Everton Clash

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has been handed a major boost with John Terry set to return to action to face Everton at Stamford Bridge on Saturday as the club aim to maintain their lead at the top of the Premier League.

After being ever present in the club's opening 24 Premier League games, Terry has missed Chelsea's last three matches due to a muscular strain and the team has struggled in his absence.

The captain was originally left out as a precaution for the game against Newcastle but also missed the 1-1 draw with West Bromwich Albion and last Saturday's 2-0 defeat to Manchester City in the FA Cup.

But Mourinho has confirmed in a press conference that Terry will be back in contention for the match against the Toffees - but also revealed David Luiz will be out with a muscle injury and will not be expected to return until the Champions League game with Galatasaray next Wednesday.

Asked about Terry's importance in the squad he said: "John has a level of performance that gives stability to the team, especially one with lots of young people.

"The captain's armband doesn't mean so much, it's a voice on pitch... To have a player to transmit what I need is important.

"If one day we don't have David Luiz and John the situation is more difficult. John being ready keeps our balance."

Chelsea host Everton on Saturday after Roberto Martinez's side beat them 1-0 earlier this season at Goodison Park.

"It doesn't matter what happened in the past," Mourinho continued. "We think we can beat them because we believe in ourselves. Everton are a good team, they defend well and are dangerous on the counter-attack. It's a team with good balance.

Everton are a very good team, playing very well and getting good results. They're in a position that reflects their quality. If we can beat Everton it is a good weekend for us. If we lose points at home, it's never good."