Blues trio miss European preparations

Captain John Terry, Eden Hazard and Willian were absent as Chelsea finalised preparations for their Champions League clash with Sporting Lisbon.

Chelsea, who lost for the first time in 24 games this season at Newcastle last Saturday, are already through in Group G as winners.

Manager Jose Mourinho may have opted to give Terry the clash off, along with Hazard and Willian prior to a return to Premier League return against Hull on Saturday.

Sporting are in a battle with Roberto di Matteo’s Schalke to advance as group runners up.

It is understood the trio have been rested for the contest.

Ruben Loftus-Cheek, the 18-year-old midfielder, is included in the squad, with Mourinho likely to balance rotating his options and giving youth a chance with keeping his side in tune for the busy festive programme.

Cesc Fabregas may be included as he is suspended for the visit of Hull to Stamford Bridge this weekend for accumulating five yellow cards.

Goalkeeper Petr Cech could get a third start in the competition this term after twice playing against Slovenia’s Maribor.