Chelsea boss Rafa Benitez insists Demba Ba is strong enough to handle a hostile reception at Newcastle United.

Ba returns to his old club today.

"He's a good friend of mine. We have texted each other a lot.

"Chelsea, to me, are still one of the top, top clubs. They are always up there and challenging for trophies. This is the kind of game you want to play in.

"Are they more beatable now? I don't know. I'll tell you after the game but I know it'll be tough.

"Demba is a miss but we have players who can score goals.

"We've good players like Cisse, Gouffron, Shola and Cabaye, who can all score."