Chelsea: Striker swap deal; challenge for defender; Terry red card reaction

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The Mirror believe that Chelsea are set to launch a swap deal which would see Fernando Llorente move from Swansea to west London with Michy Batshuayi heading the other way on loan. Batshuayi made his first start in months against Peterborough on Sunday but may now depart, with Llorente a popular option for Antonio Conte.

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The Spaniard would represent a more physical option for the Blues should Diego Costa be unavailable or may alternatively join him up front as was often seen when the ex-Athletic Bilbao striker was playing under Conte at Juventus in a 3-5-2 formation.

Manager Antonio Conte has revealed that the Blues have recalled defender Nathan Ake from his loan spell at Bournemouth where he has become a key man for Eddie Howe’s team. Conte challenged the youngster to prove himself at Stamford Bridge as he said:

“I called back Ake because I think he’s showing to be ready to stay in a squad of Chelsea. Chelsea is his home. In the last season he played a whole season in the Premier League with Watford. This season he was playing with Bournemouth. He’s showing to deserve to stay in a great time like Chelsea. Ake gives me important options, because we are playing with three central defenders. He can play on the left, he can play in the middle. Also it’s important to see during a training session if he can play as a wing-back. Me, the club, we wanted to bring back Ake because he gives me good opportunity, good solutions.”

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The 21-year-old may now find himself frustrated at having to prove himself to earn game time given that he was first choice for Eddie Howe but he will need to make the most of the opportunity.

After yesterday’s FA Cup victory over Peterborough United, a good result was slightly spoiled by the sending off of captain John Terry on his return to the first team after months on the sidelines. However, Antonio Conte confirmed that the club may appeal the decision, saying:

“You have to respect the decision, but in this case maybe we will do an appeal for this situation.”

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Terry was seemingly the last man when he brought down striker Lee Angol and may now face a suspension which would see him unavailable for the trip to Leicester City next weekend.

Featured Image: All rights reserved by Christine Sanjaya.