Swedish Allsvenskan champions Malmo have been handed a tough draw in the group stage of the UEFA Champions League after they were named alongside current champions Chelsea,  two-time winners Juventus and Russian Premier League powerhouse Zenit Saint Petersburg in Group H.

Super Eagles invitee for the upcoming World Cup qualifier against Cape Verde, Innocent Bonke was one of the unsung heroes of Malmo in the qualifying rounds, featuring in seven of their eight matches.

Legendary Malmo striker Peter Ijeh is backing Bonke to hold his own in a potential midfield battle against two of the best players in the world in that position, Chelsea duo N'Golo Kante and Jorginho.

A European champion with Italy this summer, Jorginho added another trophy to his collection after he was voted UEFA Men's Player of the Year on Thursday while Kante was recognized as the best midfielder after starring for Chelsea in their Champions League win last season.

"What quality will Bonke bring to the Malmo side and if he can compete with Chelsea midfielders Kante and Jorginho? Of course he will do his best and exhibit his qualities as a football player," Ijeh told allnigeriasoccer.com.

"When it comes to team structure and other things I think the Chelsea and Juventus teams have an edge.

"But definitely I believe he will give his best at least to showcase his talents to the world in the Champions League.

"I wish all the teams in the group stage including Malmo best of luck".

The 25-year-old Bonke has no previous Champions League group stage experience and will be hoping to make his debut in the competition next month.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel