The Premier League leaders will miss the likes of Didier Drogba, Salomon Kalou, Michael Essien and John Obi Mikel during the tournament, which runs from 10-31 January in Angola.

Their first game without the presence of their African players will be against an in-form Fulham side on Monday.

"We will still have 11 against Fulham," Ancelotti was quoted as saying by Sky Sports on Thursday.

"If Didier is not here, we can put in other players. (Daniel) Sturridge has an opportunity to show his qualities. He played against West Ham very well in that second half and, maybe, against Birmingham he can play from the beginning.

"I didn't ask owner Roman (Abramovich) for new players and he has not asked me if I want them."

Chelsea top the standings on 41 points, four ahead of second-placed and defending champions Manchester United.