Conte backs Chelsea youngster Musonda

Embed from Getty Images

Chelsea boss Antonio Conte says he believes Charly Musonda is capable of making an impact at first-team level.

Midfielder Musonda, 20, is likely to feature in Wednesday’s EFL Cup tie against Nottingham Forest at Stamford Bridge, where Kenedy might also be involved.

It would be only be Musonda’ second senior appearance for the Blues.

Conte said: “We are talking about a young player with a really good prospect, because you can see very clearly his talent.

Embed from Getty Images

“I think now it is very important for him to adapt to this league, because this league is not simple – it is a physical league.

“Now he is working a lot to improve his strength and to be ready to make a big impact.

“I trust Charly. It is important for a coach to trust a player.”

Conte also believes Musonda could be an option at wing-back in the future.

“In my mind he could play as a number 10, he could play as a winger, and also in the future he could play as a wing-back,” said the Italian.

Conte also confirmed that Eden Hazard is set to return to the starting line-up against Forest.