Chelsea continue their Champions League campaign this week against Spanish side Atletico Madrid, with Antonio Conte’s men hoping to carry on their fine form so far this season.

The game promises to be a fascinating encounter, especially with the Diego Costa saga reaching its conclusion –
as the Spanish international leaves Stamford Bridge to join Atletico. Of course, Costa will play no part in the game for either side, but his presence will be much talked about in the build up to kick off.

Chelsea began their Champions League group with a convincing 6-0 victory over Qarabag, a side Conte’s men comfortably brushed aside with little problem. However, Atletico are a completely different kettle of fish and the game could arguably be the Blues’ hardest fixture so far this season.

Conte confirmed that goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois will be ok to play against his former side, despite landing heavily during Saturday’s victory against Stoke after clashing with teammate Gary Cahill and Peter Crouch. Defender David Luiz is expected to return to the starting line up, after serving the first of his three-game domestic suspension on Saturday.

Predicted XI

Courtois

Azpilicueta – Luiz – Cahill

Moses – Bakayoko – Kante – Alonso

Hazard – Morata – Pedro