Chelsea set to be without key man for Newcastle visit '“ but will Antonio Conte be banned?

Luiz missed last night's 1-0 home win over Swansea City because of a knee injury.

"Now it's very difficult (for Luiz)," said Conte. "He had liquid in his knee, and we have to assess his recovery on the time. I hope to not lose him for a lot of time, and I need to have all my players."

Conte was sent to the stands by referee Neil Swarbrick after protesting to the fourth official about what he felt was time-wasting by the visitors.

And Chelsea's manager could be banned for Saturday's game against Newcastle.

"After the game, I think it's right to apologise," said Conte, who watched had to watch the game on a TV in the dressing room.

"I saw that Swansea were wasting time. I said this to the fourth official. I was frustrated. I tried to tell again. Then the referee took this decision. I apologise for this.

"I was frustrated for this situation. I tried to tell again and the referee reacted to this situation.

For this, I apologise. For sure, I made a mistake, but I suffer during the game. I suffer with my players. It's a pity.

"I suffered in the same way, also in the changing room, also on the video. I didn't have the possibility to communicate with my players. It was very strange."

Meanwhile, United manager Rafa Benitez expects to be without Jamaal Lascelles, Christian Atsu and Paul Dummett for the club's visit to the Premier League champions.

Newcastle came back from two goals down to draw 2-2 with West Bromwich Albion at The Hawthorns on Tuesday night.