Our Chelsea fans here in the Transfer Tavern are hoping that the distraction of the Champions League can re-kick start their season.

The Blues so far this year have been poor, slipping down in the league and being knocked out of the semi-final of the Carabao Cup have all led to reports gathering pace that Antonio Conte is facing the axe at Stamford Bridge.

However, Chelsea impressed against Barcelona at Stamford Bridge and, with it all to play for at the Camp Nou, the Blues in our bar are dreaming about a potential run in the competition they won so famously back in 2012. Conte will be looking for a big game performance from his players, and if he was to turn this season around it could be the jumpstart Chelsea need.

That’s easier said than done of course, though the punters propping up the bar do believe the Blues have the kind of talent available to Conte.

With that in mind, our landlord takes a closer look at two players that need to perform for Conte to ensure the result…

Thibaut Courtois

The goalkeeper has had an overall poor season so far compared to previous seasons, some of our regulars believe it’s down to the fact is mind is somewhere else, others think it’s the whole squad that has largely underperformed.

With Barcelona’s attacking threat, Courtois has to be on his game. If Chelsea can come away with a clean sheet, they will give themselves a huge chance of stealing a victory. If the former Atletico Madrid man can get back to his very best, Chelsea could go a long way in this competition.

Eden Hazard

With a possible build up in the midfield to snuff out the opposition, much of the attacking prowess will come down to the little Belgian’s playmaking and creative attributes. Many in the pub think it will be a solid defensive and smart counter-attacking display by the Blues and one that Hazard needs to take by the scruff of the neck.

If Hazard is in the mood, there’s no better stage on which to impress. Undoubtedly one of the talents of the Champions League, he could prove the difference maker should Chelsea overcome the Spanish giants.