Chelsea players wrestle with big inflatable balls in training ahead of Arsenal clash

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte is using some unusual training techniques in a bid to prepare his players for Sunday’s English Premier League game with Arsenal.

The Blues welcome the Gunners to Stamford Bridge on Sunday afternoon as they bid to extend their English Premier League winning run to four consecutive games.

With three days after demolishing Qarabag in the UEFA Champions League, Chelsea’s players were all smiling taking part in several exercise routines involving a big blue yoga balls.

As well as using the giant balls for a couple of stretching routines, Antonio Conte’s men entered into some one-on-one wrestling competitions as each player tries to pull the giant ball from their opponent’s grasp.

The Italian tactician is expected to continue his team rotation policy on Sunday afternoon with Spain international Cesc Fabregas likely to the match against his former side.

The former Juventus tactician defended his decision to make changes for Chelsea’s UEFA Champions League win over Qarabag as Italian Davide Zappacosta netted on his full Chelsea debut.

Chelsea first choice goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, who missed a spot kick against North London club Arsenal in their FA Community Shield loss at the beginning of the season, said his club mates are in high spirits ahead of the London derby on Sunday.