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Danny Drinkwater signed for Chelsea from Leicester City on transfer deadline day, but he’s yet to make his Chelsea debut having picked up a calf injury since September.

Conte said of his injury: “He had a muscular problem in his calf. I think it’s very difficult to see him before the international break. He needs time to recover.

“It’s a pity because he was starting to work and to improve his physical condition. Now we have to move all these situations. And in two, three weeks, four weeks, I don’t know.”

And now, N’Golo Kante is injured, leaving the central midfield position for only Cesc Fabregas and Tiemoue Bakayako.

Drinkwater’s return from a calf complaint which has prevented him making his debut for the champions following his £35m move from Leicester City isn’t far off, as the 27-year-old is now close to fitness and could be in line for Chelsea’s next game against Crystal Palace.