Antonio Conte revealed Eden Hazard is closing in on 100% fitness but wouldn’t confirm if the Belgian will start against Arsenal on Sunday.
The Italian tactician has used the attacker from the bench in Chelsea’s last two games against Leicester and Qarabag but he is yet to start a game all season.
Hazard underwent surgery on a problematic ankle in the summer, which has taken months to heal, but he is now approaching full fitness ahead of a crucial game.
And Conte will have a decision to make whether or not to start him at Stamford Bridge.
‘Eden, for sure he’s improving and I think he has to have this kind of passions with him is paying off,’ he said in his pre-match press conference.
‘He’s very close, he’s very close to be totally fit and we have to continue in this way and don’t forget I have to make decision for the team, for the players.
‘But I think he’s improving a lot and he’s very close to being 100% fit.’
Gary Cahill will also return from a suspension after being sent off against Burnley on the opening day of the Premier League season, although Conte would not disclose whether he would earn his place back immediately.
‘For Cahill, he came back against Qarabag and I think he played very well – a good performance,’ he added.
‘I’m pleased for him. I have another day to reflect and then to make the best decision for Sunday.’
Danny Drinkwater, meanwhile, will not be available for another few weeks after picking up a frustrating calf injury.
‘He had a muscle problem in his calf,’ Conte continued.
‘It’s very difficult to see him before the international break. He needs time now to recover.
‘It’s a pity because he was starting to work and improve his physical condition and adapt himself into our style of football. Now we have to move this situation for 2 or 3 weeks.’
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