Eden Hazard is in contention to face Atletico Madrid, confirmed Antonio Conte.

The Chelsea star is still in the process of recovering from the ankle surgery he had in June, but he shone during his first start of the season against Nottingham Forest last week.

Hazard came off the bench with 20 minutes to go in Chelsea's win over Stoke on Saturday, but Conte has suggested the Belgian could be available when the Blues host Diego Simeone's side on Wednesday night.

"I think now Eden is improving a lot and for sure he is in contention for the game against Atletico Madrid," Conte added. "After a bad injury and surgery you need time but I think he is showing that he's ready. He is almost ready to play but if I make this decision it will be because I am comfortable with this decision.

"I think we are managing his recovery very well. Hazard is very important for us and now it's important to be sure that he's ready to play for the whole game."