Big boosts for Antonio Conte as Chelsea’s injury problems get better ahead of West Ham

The Chelsea fans in the Transfer Tavern are still feeling down after Sunday when they suffered their first home loss to Tottenham in 28 years. Two second-half goals from Dele Alli sealed the pints for Spurs after Christian Eriksen’s stunner had cancelled out Alvaro Morata’s header in the first half.

Despite the awful result on Sunday, the Chelsea fans propping our bar up will be delighted to hear from freelance journalist Ben Dinnery on Twitter that four Chelsea stars who missed the Spurs game could return to the fold for West Ham on Sunday. Thibaut Courtois, Pedro and Davide Zappacosta are all hoping to be available as David Moyes’ brings West Ham to town and January signing Ross Barkly could also feature after playing just over an hour for Chelsea’s development side on Saturday.

Courtois, Pedro and Zappacosta are hoping to be available for the visit of West Ham following a return to training. Ross Barkley could also feature after his 63 minute run out for the U23 side at Derby last weekend. #CFC

— Ben Dinnery (@BenDinnery) April 4, 2018

Antonio Conte will be desperate to take all three points away from the Hammers on Sunday as he looks to narrow the eight-point gap opened up between his side and Tottenham after last Sunday’s result. The reverse fixture was won 1-0 by West Ham back in December, courtesy of an early Marko Arnautovic goal, and the Stamford Bridge faithful will be hoping that with their returning stars they’ll be able to seek revenge on West Ham and close the gap on Spurs all in one go on Sunday’s late kick-off.

Landlord’s verdict:

Chelsea will need to put in a much better account of themselves against West Ham than they did against Tottenham if they want to keep their top four hopes alive. Although, with the return of four members of the senior squad, including number one ‘keeper, Thibaut Courtois, they should be able to see off the Stratford club at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.

Thoughts?