Barkley will have to wait for Chelsea debut

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Antonio Conte says he is unsure when Ross Barkley is likely to be ready to make his Chelsea debut.

Barkley, who was recently signed from Everton,  underwent hamstring surgery last year and has not played so far this season.

The midfielder has trained with the rest of the Chelsea squad but there is no prospect of him featuring in Wednesday’s Carabao Cup semi-final first leg against Arsenal.

“Tomorrow is very soon, but we must be pleased because his physical condition is good,” said Blues boss Conte.

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“He has started to train with us, to understand our idea of football and the physical aspect and the tactical aspect.”

Asked when he expects Barkley to be available for selection, Conte said: “I don’t know. Now it is very difficult to say, but at the same time I am very positive because the player is a good guy who is showing real will to work and a desire to help us very soon.

“This is very positive and I am very happy to have Ross with us.”