Kovacic will have vital role for Chelsea – Sarri

Boss Maurizio Sarri believes the deadline-day signing of Mateo Kovacic gives Chelsea vital midfield creativity they needed.

The 24-year-old has signed on a season-long loan from Real Madrid as part of the deal which saw goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois join the Spanish side.

“Kovacic is a very technical player,” Sarri said prior to Chelsea’s first Premier League match of the season, against Huddersfield.

“He is able to play between the lines of the opponent. For us that could be very important.

“I am really happy for Kovacic because he has the characteristics for us. I am really happy and I think the squad is complete.”

Meanwhile, Kepa Arrizabalaga is in contention to make his debut against the Terriers after joining from Athletic Bilbao.

The Spain international, 23, has signed a seven-year contract at Stamford Bridge and joined the Blues for £71m – a world record fee for a keeper.