Terry unlikely to play against Spurs

Chelsea boss Antonio Conte has indicated that John Terry is unlikely to play against Tottenham even if Gary Cahill is unavailable for Saturday’s FA Cup semi-final.

Cahill was treated in hospital for gastroenteritis this week and is doubtful for the game at Wembley.

That prompted speculation that Terry, who recently announced that he will be leaving Chelsea this summer, could be given a starting place.

However, Conte suggested that Cahill, who has played on the left of a back three for most of this season, will not be replaced by Terry if the England defender misses out.

Conte explained: “This is a semi-final and this season we try to have in every position two options – the player that usually plays and another.

“The right position for John when we play with three is a more central position, but that is David Luiz. I have to make the best decision and we try different solution.”

Cahill will be assessed before a final decision is made on whether he is fit enough to be considered for selection, but he is not expected to feature.

“If you ask me for tomorrow my answer is it will be very difficult (for Cahill to play),” said Conte.