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Chelsea boss Sarri: I need Luiz. I don't care about Conte row

Chelsea defender David Luiz knows he has a major place in manager Maurizio Sarri's season plans.

The Brazilian defender earned plaudits from Sarri following his first Premier League outing since February 5 as the Blues comfortably beat Huddersfield 3-0.

Injuries and a strained relationship with Antonio Conte looked to spell the end of his second stint at the club. But under the new regime the 31-year-old is back in the fold with a key role to play.

“I don't know about what happened in the past but now he has a good chance," said Sarri. “We only have to carry on like we are doing now with him."

The Italian insists Luiz can adapt to his favoured four-man backline.

“I disagree that he can only play as one of three central defenders," added the former Napoli coach.

“If you are a good defender, you can play in a line of three or in a four.

“David has a big future here. He will be useful for us but not just on the pitch. He is also very important in the dressing room. I very much enjoy his attitude when I am working with him."

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