Chelsea head coach Graham Potter has suggested that he intends to name a strong starting lineup for Wednesday's Champions League fixture against Dinamo Zagreb.
After winning their last three matches in the competition, Chelsea have already qualified for the knockout stages as winners of their group.
On the back of an intense schedule and with Arsenal, Manchester City and Newcastle United to come in a short space of time, the clash with the Croatian giants represents an opportunity for Potter to rest players.
However, if Red Bull Salzburg fall to defeat against AC Milan, Zagreb can earn a spot in the Europa League knockout stages courtesy of a victory at Stamford Bridge.
When quizzed on his team selection at his pre-match press conference, Potter hinted that he would not necessarily hand chances to some of the squad's fringe members or academy players without justification.
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The Englishman told reporters: "I think we have to have respect for the competition and respect for the teams. We have to prepare to win. We want to respond from the disappointment at the weekend. We'll pick a team that we think can win.
"I don't think it's a time to use young players for the sake of it. A lot of them have been impressive, I like the character and they've had a role in what we do here."
Potter was also asked about the fitness of several players, with goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga having been withdrawn against Brighton & Hove Albion at the weekend and Mateo Kovacic and Kalidou Koulibaly both dealing with issues of late.
While Potter has stated that Arrizabalaga will sit out the game in West London, Kovacic and Koulibaly will be considered for selection.
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Potter added: "Kepa won't be available for the game, slight issue with his plantar fascia, but I think we are talking days.
"Kovacic (missed training) just precautionary with his calf. He's got a chance, but we will make a decision later on.
"Koulibaly came through training with no problems (after a knee injury). Provided there's no reaction, he'll be available."
Potter also confirmed at the press conference that second-choice stopper Edouard Mendy would start in place of Arrizabalaga, rather than third-choice Marcus Bettinelli being given a rare chance.
Darren Plant
