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Olivier Giroud Chelsea BournemouthGetty Images

Chelsea team news: Giroud handed first Blues start as Morata makes bench against West Brom

Olivier Giroud has been handed his first start for Chelsea as the Blues take on West Bromwich Albion at Stamford Bridge on Monday.

Antonio Conte's side are in desperate need of a win after losing two straight to Bournemouth and Watford by a combined score of 7-1.

Giroud has appeared once for the Blues so far — Chelsea's 4-1 loss to Watford on February 5 after signing for the club on transfer deadline day. 

‘It’s exciting when you sign for a new side and I’m looking forward to playing tonight," Giroud said in quotes published on Chelsea's Twitter account.

"We’ve worked a lot in training and I feel ready. I needed a new challenge and Chelsea gave me this opportunity. I’m looking forward to making my full debut."

Alvaro Morata is back from injury to provide another boost but only makes the bench as he aims to return from his back trouble. 

Defender Andreas Christensen also makes his return from injury, and he will go straight into the line-up after missing a game and a half. 

Cesc Fabregas comes into the first team with Tiemoue Bakayoko suspended after being red carded last week.

Antonio Rudiger replaces Gary Cahill and David Luiz drops out of the squad after his poor display at Vicarage Road.

Eden Hazard moves back into a wide position after playing the last two games in the central striker role. Marcos Alonso remains out of the squad completely after twisting his ankle in training.

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