Conte says Bakayoko could feature against Spurs

Chelsea boss Antonio Conte says Tiémoué Bakayoko could feature against Tottenham at Wembley on Sunday.

Summer signing Bakayoko, who has had a knee problem, featured in behind-closed-doors friendly against QPR’s youth side on Thursday, as did Eden Hazard.

Hazard, who had ankle surgery earlier this summer, is not yet being considered for a first-team return.

But with Conte’s options limited, not least because Cesc Fabregas is suspended, the Italian says Bakayoko could be involved this weekend despite not being fully fit.

“Hazard is improving but to be fully fit I think he needs time. We must be patient with him and try to do the best for him,” said Conte.

“Bakayoko is improving very well. He is not at the top of his physical condition but I think he could be in contention because in this moment I don’t have other midfielders available.

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“It is not easy. In this moment the situation could force me to take a different decision.”

Chelsea could also be without Pedro, who missed last Saturday’s defeat against Burnley because of an ankle injury.

Pedro trained on Friday but was still being troubled by the problem and is being assessed.