Antonio Rudiger to start for Chelsea against Krasnodar?

Chelsea manager Frank Lampard has hinted that Antonio Rudiger could start in the central defence when the Blues face Krasnodar in the Champions League on Wednesday night.

Rudiger has been sidelined from first-team duties since the start of the campaign and he has not played a single minute for the Blues in any competition to date.

The German was linked with potential loan moves to Paris Saint-Germain and Tottenham Hotspur earlier this summer, but they were put off by the Blues demands of £5m while they wanted his £7.5m annual wages to be paid in full.

Speaking ahead of the European clash against Krasnodar, Lampard emphasised that he has always had a good relationship with Rudiger and the German is in contention to play on Wednesday with Thiago Silva rested.

"I have discussions with Antonio and all the players as readily as I can do. I have a very positive relationship with him, and he’s in the squad and very much in contention to play," He told via the club's official website.

Chelsea have struggled since their return from the international break with three draws across all competitions. They recently played out a goalless stalemate against Manchester United on the road.