Antonio Conte hints new Chelsea signing could play against Norwich

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte Photo: Screengrab

Antonio Conte has hinted that Ross Barkley could be set to make his debut for Chelsea when the Blues take on Norwich City at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday night.

The west London side are set to welcome the Canaries to Stamford Bridge for the replay of their FA Cup third round clash this week.

Barkley has been training with his new team-mates at Cobham since signing for the west London side from Everton at the start of the January transfer window.

The 24-year-old midfielder has not featured at all this season after having only recently recovered from a serious hamstring injury.

However, the England international has been working on his fitness levels at Cobham and could well be involved when the Blues host the Canaries in midweek.

Speaking to Chelsea’s website, Conte said: “Ross is working very well with us on the tactical and physical aspect. “Against Norwich he could be available to start on the bench and then to play a part of the game.

For sure, he is a good signing for us, a young player with great potential.” Chelsea head into the game looking to get back to winning ways after three successive goalless draws in all competitions.

The Blues were unable to break down 10-man Leicester City at Stamford Bridge in the Premier League on Saturday afternoon as they failed to take their chance to move into second place in the table.

Chelsea won the Premier League title in style last season but did not have the distraction of European football.