Conte confirms Luiz will face Liverpool

Antonio Conte has confirmed that David Luiz will start for Chelsea against Liverpool at Stamford Bridge on Friday.

Luiz will replace the injured John Terry – the Brazilian’s first appearance since his surprise return to Chelsea from Paris St-Germain.

Luiz attracted criticism for some defensive mishaps during his first spell at the club.

But Blues boss Conte recently insisted that the 29-year-old can improve as a player and become one of the best centre-backs in the world.

And Conte reiterated on the eve of Liverpool’s visit to west London that he has full confidence in Luiz.

“David Luiz will play for the first time with us and we are confident about this,” Conte said.

“We expect him to play well. We know David is a good player and we are working to put him in the best condition to give us the best of him.

“I am confident for him tomorrow for his performance and I am pleased because during training I have seen good things.”

Meanwhile, Conte has reacted to continued speculation about Cesc Fabergas’ future by insisting the midfielder is part of his future plans and that Chelsea are not planning to sell him.