Chelsea boss, Antonio Conte, revealed that Eden Hazard will be on the bench for the Qarabag game as he continues his recovery from injury.
Chelsea open their Champions League campaign on Tuesday night when they welcome Qarabag to Stamford Bridge. After a year away from European competition, the Blues will be raring to get off to a good start. However, Antonio Conte has revealed that Eden Hazard will not be in his starting eleven.
Speaking to the press before the game, Conte shared Danny Drinkwater’s injury concern while stating that Hazard will be on the bench.
"Conte reported at his press conference today that Danny Drinkwater has a muscular problem in his calf, the outcome of which will be discovered soon…Conte also said Eden Hazard would be on the bench tomorrow as his return from injury continues to be carefully managed. – via chelseafc.com"
Hazard has been out of action for several months but he made his return while on international duty with Belgium. He started and played 77 minutes against Gibraltar before appearing off the bench against Greece.
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The winger came off the bench again during Chelsea’s clash with Leicester City – he was afforded little over ten minutes. Before that fixture, Conte stated that he would be cautious in managing his return. The last thing the Blues need with their thin squad is further damage to their star man.
Chelsea will continue to tread carefully on Tuesday night. Qarabag are making their debut in the Champions League and, frankly, should be easily dispatched. Conte may chop and change the starting line-up, fully expecting his backup players to secure the three points with minimal fuss. There is little reason to risk Hazard in this game.
Having said that, this could also be the perfect match to run him out. It won’t be as intense as a regular Premier League game and, as long as Chelsea control possession, will not be overly taxing on Hazard. It could be the ideal step between substitute appearances and starting high-pressure fixtures.
Conte, though, thinks that Hazard’s recovery is best served by starting on the bench. After all, he is the best-informed man to make such a decision.
Next: Chelsea’s predicted XI vs. Qarabag: Debuts for Caballero, Drinkwater, Musonda
What do you think? Are you disappointed that Hazard won’t be running amok on Tuesday night? Or are you a fan of this choreographed recovery? Let us know in the comments below!