Emerson to play for Chelsea at Burnley but Drinkwater is a doubt

Emerson Palmieri is set to make his full Premier League debut for Chelsea in Thursday’s match at Burnley.

Boss Antonio Conte has confirmed that the January signing will play against the Clarets – but Danny Drinkwater is a doubt because of a groin problem.

Emerson, 23, has made just three appearances since his move from Roma.

His only start for the Blues came against Hull City in the FA Cup and his two league outings have both been as a substitute.

But Conte, whose side face Southampton in the FA Cup semi-final on Sunday, insisted the Brazilian is ready to play.

He is in line to replace Marcos Alonso, who could face a three-match ban after being retrospectively charged by the Football Association with violent conduct following a challenge on Shane Long during Saturday’s league win at Southampton.

“Tomorrow Emerson will play. He is ready physically and tactically,” Conte said.

“I don’t know if he will be able to play two games in three days, but the first problem is tomorrow and for sure he will play against Burnley.”

Conte also refused to say whether Chelsea will contest the charge brought against Alonso – they have until 6pm on Wednesday to respond.

“The situation is very clear. The FA charged him and we have until tonight the possibility to respond to this situation,” Conte said.

“I don’t want to comment now on this topic. I prefer to wait and see what happens. We have to wait because until tonight we have the possibility to respond.”

Danny Drinkwater is a doubt for Thursday’s game because of a groin injury.