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Chelsea 'in good shape' for Atletico clash, Eden Hazard could return, says Antonio Conte

ByPA Sport

Updated 25/09/2017 at 11:12 GMT

Antonio Conte thinks his Chelsea side head into their Champions League game against Atletico Madrid in good shape following a comfortable victory over Stoke.

Chelsea Manager Antonio Conte reacts during the Premier League match between Stoke City and Chelsea

Image credit: Getty Images

The Blues boss saw his team warm up for their tricky trip to the Spanish capital on Wednesday with a 4-0 Premier League win at the bet365 Stadium.
A hat-trick from Alvaro Morata and another goal by Pedro sealed a fifth victory in six matches domestically and Conte's attention now turns to Europe in preparation for Chelsea's second match in Group C.
He said: "It wasn't easy despite the 4-0 result. We must be pleased and satisfied. Now it's important to rest well and prepare for another game against Atletico Madrid.
"We have to prepare in the right way for this tough game. In the last few years they've been strong in the Champions League, reaching two finals.
"But we are in good shape. We are rotating and the answer from my players is positive. We will be ready."
As for Hazard, after making his first start of the season in the League Cup last week, the Belgium international was again named as a substitute the win over Stoke as he continues to recover from a fractured ankle. But Conte said he is in contention for a European start.
"I think now Eden is improving a lot and for sure he's in contention for Atletico Madrid," Conte told reporters.
"After a bad injury and surgery you need time. He's almost ready to play but if I make this decision it will be because I'm comfortable with it," the Italian added.
"I think we are managing him very well. Other players are also very important for us and now it's important to be sure he's ready."
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