Antonio Conte: Chelsea Ace Ethan Ampadu Will Join The First Team Squad

Antonio Conte has confirmed Ethan Ampadu is now a fixture in his first team squad, filling the youngster with pride.

The 17-year-old’s growing reputation was enhanced by his display in last week’s EFL Cup defeat of Bournemouth, and he said:

“The manager giving you a chance, it gives you confidence that he has trust in you and when you perform you just need show what you can do.”

Ampadu is expected to be on the bench today, but Conte has no concerns about the teenager, saying:

“He trains with us every day, and is part of our squad.

"I have to try to make the best decision but, for sure, I can count on him.”

Brighton boss Chris Hughton said: “We go there knowing it is difficult to get a result and not many expect us to.

“You know that you are going to give away a hugebulk of possession but these are challenges everybody is looking forward to.

"To get anything we are going to have to be absolutely at our best and Chelsea not to be. We will have to play at a good level to stay in the game.”