Antonio Conte says Chelsea’s FA Cup clash with Brentford will be an opportunity for Nathan Ake to show him what he can do.
The versatile youngster is set for his first appearance for Chelsea since being recalled from a season-long loan at Bournemouth.
Blues boss Conte believes Ake is capable of establishing himself as a first-team player at Stamford Bridge and is keen to see how he fares in this weekend’s west London derby.
Speaking at a press conference on Friday, Conte said: “Ake I think has the possibility to play in different positions, as a central defender and as a wing-back.
“For him is a good opportunity to show me he’s into our idea of football and to show his improvement.”
Meanwhile, Conte has indicated that young defender Ola Aina could leave on loan before Tuesday’s transfer deadline.
The Italian has decided not to loan out Ruben Loftus-Cheek or Nathaniel Chalobah, but there may be an opportunity for Aina to pick-up first-team experience elsewhere.
Conte said: “Ruben and Chalobah for sure will continue to stay with us for the rest of the season.
“For Ola I think there could be the possibility to go on loan but there are four days to see the development of the situation.”