Champions League football returns to Stamford Bridge on Tuesday evening, when Qarabag, from Azerbaijan play Chelsea in the first game of the forthcoming campaign. The game will give Antonio Conte a chance to rotate his squad, rest players and integrate others.
For sure Gary Cahill will return to the starting XI, resuming his captain`s role. It will also be a good opportunity to give Eden Hazard a good run out ahead of the game Arsenal at the weekend. New signings Danny Drinkwater and Davide Zappacosta could also make their debuts for Chelsea.
There is also the chance that some of the younger squad members may get some game time. Charley Musonda Jr. has posted this on his instagram account.
Let`s hope the Belgian get`s his chance and fulfils his promise. Another debutant is likely to Willy Caballero, Chelsea`s first signing of the summer transfer window. Bought into the club as replacement for Asmir Begovic, game time for the Argentinian is likely to be at a premium. These early European qualification games are good opportunity for Conte to gave all squad members a chance of serious game time and boost the moral of those generally on the bench.
Even with a raft of changes, this ought to be a comfortable win for the Premier League`s current champions. It will be good see how the new arrivals and some of the old guard do in their first run-outs of the season.
Please feel free, in the comments facility beneath this article, to list the starting eleven you believe Antonio Conte will select.