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It was expected that Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri will rest star man Eden Hazard ahead of the trip to Belarus as BATE Borisov host Chelsea in a Europa League Group L clash. But Sarri has revealed that Hazard will feature in the game on Thursday.
Hazard hurt his back in the 2-2 draw against Manchester United last month, and he had to sit out three games as a result. The 27-year-old returned in the 3-1 win against Crystal Palace on Sunday, but was only a second-half substitute as Sarri introduced him after the hour mark with Chelsea needing a goal.
Sarri has now revealed that he will give Hazard a run in, in the visit to BATE Borisov, as he revealed that Hazard needs to play up to 50 minutes and boost up his match fitness.
Asked why he decided to take Hazard to Belarus, Sarri replied: “From our doctor there is no risk. Otherwise he stays at Cobham.
“In the last match he played 30 minutes, the best for tomorrow is that he plays 45 to 50 minutes.”
Hazard is part of a 19-man squad who have travelled to Belarus. Chelsea currently top the group with nine points having won all matches so far.