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Chelsea team: Conte makes Hazard decision with three stars out for Arsenal clash
ANTONIO CONTE has selected his starting XI for Chelsea’s Carabao Cup semi-final with Arsenal.
Chelsea manager Antonio Conte is yet to win a cup competition
Chelsea and Arsenal drew the first leg of this semi-final 0-0 at Stamford Bridge.
And Conte has gone with a strong side for the visit to the Emirates.
That is despite the fact three meant - Thibaut Courtois, Alvaro Morata and Cesc Fabregas are all out.
Michu Batshuayi is the only man ousted from the side that beat Brighton 4-0 at the weekend.
He is replaced by Pedro, with Eden Hazard set to start in centre-forward position.
Conte has never won a cup competition in club management.
He guided Chelsea to the FA Cup final last year but the Blues lost to Arsenal at Wembley.
Chelsea team: Caballero; Azpilicueta (c), Christensen, Rudiger; Moses, Bakayoko, Kante, Alonso; Willian, Hazard, Pedro.
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) January 24, 2018
Subs: Eduardo, Cahill, David Luiz, Zappacosta, Drinkwater, Barkley, Batshuayi. #ARSCHE pic.twitter.com/MpZXMyk8ed
Discussing the chances of reaching an EFL Cup final for the first time, he said: “After a 10th place finish (when I too over) and then to win the league and reach the final of the FA Cup, this is a fantastic opportunity for me in a few years.
“For me and my players it is great if we can reach this target. We know we have to fight against Arsenal.
“If you are able to fight during the season for every trophy and give satisfaction for you fans.”
Chelsea's Eden Hazard shows off silky skills in training
Chelsea team vs Arsenal
Chelsea: Caballero, Azpilicueta, Christensen, Rudiger, Moses, Bakayoko, Kante, Alonso; Willian, Hazard, Pedro.
Subs: Eduardo, Cahill, David Luiz, Zappacosta, Drinkwater, Barkley, Batshuayi.
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