Roma vs Chelsea: Match preview

Chelsea face a tough away trip to Rome in the return leg of their group stage clash with Roma.

A win at the Stadio Olimpico for the Blues will guarantee them a spot in the last 16 with two games remaining in group C.

Antonio Conte recognises the importance of taking all three points from this game: “Our group is a tough group with Atlético Madrid and Roma, to stay at the top of this group is really important.”

N’Golo Kanté could return from a hamstring injury he suffered in his side’s 1-0 defeat to Manchester City on the 30th September. Conte has said that he has trained with the team and that he will listen to Kanté and then “make the best decision for the player and the team”

The last game between the two sides was a thrilling encounter. It saw Chelsea throw away a two goal lead only to be rescued by Eden Hazard in the 75th minute to salvage a point. Edin Džeko has been on top form recently and will be looking to add to his tally of three champions league goals.

Álvaro Morata was caught up in a media storm yesterday after reports surfaced that he wasn’t happy in London. He claims the interview was misinterpreted. ”In the interview I wanted to say in the future, when I finish my career, I probably won’t live in London, but right now I’m very happy there with my wife.”

The 25 year old reassured Chelsea fans that he is here to stay in the capital: “If Chelsea had proposed a 10 year contract I would have signed it. I’m very happy at this club, in the city and with everything in London. I really like London.”

The Italian manager also dismissed claims about Morata not being happy in London by saying: “Álvaro is a good person and he is enjoying his time in London and playing for Chelsea, a great team.”

Roma are heading into this fixture on a four game unbeaten run, three of which were 1-0 victories.

Words: Kieran Soutter | Subbing: Reuben Pinder

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