Antonio Conte has confirmed that Eden Hazard is set to return to the Chelsea starting line-up for Wednesday’s EFL Cup match against Nottingham Forest.
Hazard, who has not started a game for the Blues this season, has been eased back following ankle surgery.
The Belgian’s latest appearance as a substitute came in Sunday’s goalless draw with Arsenal, after which Chelsea boss Conte indicated that Hazard would start against Forest.
And Conte has confirmed that Hazard is in line for a starting place.
He said: “I think for Eden now is the right moment to start the game and try to play the whole game. He is ready to start.
“I think we have managed his situation very well. In my career I was injured a lot of times and I have a bit of experience about this situation.”
Conte also indicated that Kenedy and Charly Musonda could also feature in the game at Stamford Bridge.
Kenedy has not played this term, having been sent home from Chelsea’s pre-season tour of the Far East for posting an offensive message about China on social media during the squad’s stay there.
“For sure tomorrow it could be a good opportunity for Musonda and for Kenedy,” Conte said.
“He knows very well what happened in China. He made a mistake but I think everyone in life makes mistakes.
“Now he is focused and working very well. He understands his mistake and he is ready to play.”
This post was last modified on 19/09/2017