Terry ruled out for Arsenal clash with foot injury

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte will try to stave off Arsenal without John Terry in his back four, as the Italian tactician confirmed Friday that the veteran defender has not recovered in time from a foot injury to play in Saturday's match.

It presumably leaves Conte with two healthy central defenders in David Luiz and Gary Cahill, and while there is optimism that Kurt Zouma is nearing a return, Conte clarified that he would only be starting to train next week.

Terry picked up a ligament injury in the joint between his foot and ankle against Swansea earlier in the month and was initially ruled out for 10 days, leaving little wiggle room for a potential appearance at the Emirates Stadium.

It seems the 35-year-old central defender will require more time before making his return to the playing field.

For Conte's part, losing Terry is less than ideal, as the Blues have conceded six goals in five matches, whilst the Gunners boast 12 goals scored in as many games. It's an area the Italian says he is trying to address.

"We must work a lot on the defensive aspect because if you want a great championship you mustn't concede so many goals," he said.