Chelsea boss Antonio Conte: 'Ross Barkley on bench for Brighton game'

Chelsea head coach Antonio Conte has revealed that Ross Barkley will feature on the bench for the club's Premier League encounter at Brighton & Hove Albion.

Earlier this month, Barkley completed a transfer to Stamford Bridge from Everton, but the midfielder is yet to play competitive football this season due to a hamstring injury and Conte has remained patient over his fitness.

However, the Italian has suggested that the January signing is now ready to make an impact, and could make an appearance off the bench at the Amex Stadium.

At his pre-match press conference, the 48-year-old said: "I think Ross is in a good physical condition. Yesterday he played 70 minutes. Tomorrow he is in the squad and comes with us.

"I don't know if during the game I decide to give him the chance to play or wait, or if the game doesn't ask this type of situation. He has to work with us in our idea. Now he is in the squad."

Chelsea will be without Gary Cahill, Cesc Fabregas, Pedro and Alvaro Morata for the trip to the Seagulls.