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Chelsea news: Hazard back in training as forgotten man targets Carabao Cup return vs Derby
CHELSEA have been boosted by the return to training of Eden Hazard ahead of their EFL Cup clash with Derby County at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday (7.45pm).
Chelsea welcomed Eden Hazard back to training on Tuesday as the Blues continued their preparation ahead of an EFL Cup tie against Derby.
The Belgian forward missed Sunday’s emphatic win over Burnley due to a back injury sustained in the 2-2 draw with Manchester United earlier this month.
However, Hazard looked in good spirits at Cobham and could be available to feature when Frank Lampard returns to Stamford Bridge with his Rams side.
The legendary Blues midfielder is now in the hotseat at Pride Park and has enjoyed an impressive start to his managerial career with Derby currently sixth in the Championship.
The Midlands outfit knocked United out in the previous round and will hope to provide another upset when Lampard returns to face the team he spent 13 years with during his playing career.
While Hazard is working his way back to full fitness and may be rested, the Carabao Cup also presents an opportunity for Maurizio Sarri to rotate his squad.
Victor Moses, Emerson Palmieri and David Zappacosta could all get game time while forgotten man Danny Drinkwater will be eyeing a start.
The former Leicester midfielder came on as a substitute in the Community Shield defeat to Manchester City back in August but has not featured since.
Willy Caballero has also found match action hard to come by but should feature from the off in goal while Gary Cahill and Cesc Fabregas may be handed rare starts.
The Chelsea players were put through their paces with some reaction drills in training as they geared up for their Round of 16 clash.
Jorginho was all smiles while Ruben Loftus-Cheek also looked in a good mood after four goals in his last two appearances.
Meanwhile, Lucas Piazon was also spotted and could be handed a surprise spot in the matchday with Olivier Giroud and Pedro both injury doubts.