It was the perfect start for the club after last year’s shambolics, with the club now keen to put their tenth-placed finish behind them.
However, Conte has risked a rift with Abramovich for his decision to stick with the old guard rather than chance his arm with youth.
According to Sport, the former Juventus boss would rather send his youngsters out on loan to gain first-team experience rather than integrate them into his starting line-up right away.
Thibaut Courtois and Oscar were the only two players under the age of 25 to start last night’s London derby victory.
Watford vs Chelsea - Premier League match preview
Sport
But Abramovich, who is a known admirer of Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola for his faith in youth, wants the club’s younger players kept closer to home.
One player that could suffer is Brazilian Kenedy, signed by Jose Mourinho a year ago.
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