Antonio Conte Confirms John Terry Will Miss Crunch London Derby Against Arsenal

GLYN KIRK / Getty Images

Antonio Conte has confirmed that John Terry with miss Chelsea’s derby match against Arsenal – but Cesc Fabregas could be in line to start against his former club, 90min reports.

The Blues boss gave an update on Terry’s injury situation after the Chelsea captain sat out the past two matches with a sprained ankle.

Terry was absent from the Premier league defeat to Liverpool, as well as EFL Cup comeback victory over Leicester City, after suffering the injury in the 2-2 draw at Swansea two weeks ago.

However, despite returning to training earlier in the week, the centre-back is not deemed fit enough to faceArsene Wenger’s side at the Emirates.

Conte said:

“John didn’t recover from his injury. He’s working, working, but he didn’t recover for the game against Arsenal.”

“I don’t know (when he will be back). In this case it’s important what the player feels, the pain he feels.”

The 35-year-old’s absence means David Luiz and Gary Cahill will continue to partner each other in the heart of Chelsea’s defence.

The pair have shipped three goals in two matches so far this term, but Chelsea’s defensive frailties have been on show even with stalwart Terry in the side.