David Luiz is expected to start for Chelsea against Atletico Madrid despite a wrist problem while Eden Hazard is believed to be pushing for a start.
David Luiz is expected to play for Chelsea against Atletico Madrid in Wednesday’s Champions League Group G clash despite a broken wrist. The defender picked up the injury against Arsenal, when he was also sent off to initiate a three-match ban which will come to an end after Saturday’s Premier League clash with Manchester City.
Meanwhile, Belgian winger Eden Hazard is also expected to start, while club captain Gary Cahill is likely to return in defence. Antonio Conte will be happy since he has no injury concerns barring summer signing Danny Drinkwater, who is sidelined due to a calf injury.
Conte remained optimistic while speaking at his pre-match press conference. “There are no injury worries. The players are fit and now it’s important to rest and recover well for the [Atlético Madrid] game on Wednesday and not forgetting we have another tough game on Saturday against Manchester City.”
He also went on to talk about Eden Hazard, who is anticipated start against Atletico. “Last season Eden played very well and a really important season for us to win the league. He showed in every game a great talent to be a really good player. The Champions League is very important for him but also for the team.”
“This competition brings you to another level and he has all the possibility to do that. He is a top player, he is fit and he is in contention to start the game. It is the right moment. David is an important player for us and this type of injury won’t stop him tomorrow. He is in contention for the game.”
As far as the midfield is concerned, Cesc Fabregas is likely to line up alongside N’Golo Kante, while Eden Hazard and Alvaro Morata could have Pedro alongside them up front. Davide Zappacosta is expected to take his place as the right wing-back after a successful debut against Qarabag.
Meanwhile, Diego Simeone has a near full-strength squad at his disposal ahead of the visit of Chelsea on Wednesday, with central midfielder Augusto Fernandez the only player unavailable as he completes his recovery from a hamstring strain.
