The 29-year-old left the Reebok Stadium in January and transfer rules mean he cannot play on Sunday at Stamford Bridge when Chelsea could win the title if Manchester United drop points at Wigan.

Jermain Defoe faced a similar situation when he left Tottenham for Portsmouth as the deal was pushed through as a loan before being made permanent at a later date.

Anelka, who has not scored since February, has struggled for a run of starts recently, with boss Avram Grant using Didier Drogba as a lone striker.

Grant has also used Anelka as a wide forward, limiting the impact of the France international.

Salomon Kalou is fit after an ankle complaint and provides Grant an option if Chelsea are chasing the game against Gary Megson's side.

Defender Ricardo Carvalho, however, will need a late check after landing heavily on his back during the victory over Newcastle on Monday.

Alex would be expected to partner John Terry in the heart of Chelsea's defence if Carvalho does not make it.