Chelsea central defender Antonio Rudiger says there is no nervousness regarding his return to the team.

Rudiger is set to earn a place in the squad after he went through a rigorous "mini pre-season" training camp.

His leadership and defensive quality have been missed this season as the Blues have conceded far too many goals under Frank Lampard.

And Rudiger is ready to come back.

He told reporters: "Nervous? Not at all. It's not the first time I've been injured for a long time.

"The first time at Chelsea for a long time, but other clubs no. I always came back very good, that's what I do. I had the operation, the surgery.

"You listen to the doctor who did the surgery and you have to be patient and just wait for your time. That's what I did. It is normal, I want to play, but I am not 19 anymore. I deal with that differently. If you are on crutches, then you can't do anything so you just have to be patient and wait.

"The coach let me have a little pre-season. It was for two and a half, almost three weeks. I really thank him. It was good for the legs but not for the heart so it was a really good idea from him. It feels good.

"It's been a long time, it's been a while now, but I'm very happy that everything went well and we are in the round of 16. I'm very happy. I missed everything as well. It was a good match for both sides. That is why you play football.

"I have to say thank you to everyone - the backroom staff, the coaches for their patience, and also the fans for their patience."