Batman is dark knight for Rovers

second round of the League Cup for the first time since 1996, having failed to qualify for Europe last season as they finished a miserable 10th in the Premier League, and it was a nervy ride.

Manager Conte made a string of changes from the side which beat Watford on Saturday, giving a first start of the season to Cesc Fabregas, Rubens LoftusCheek, Victor Moses, Asmir Begovic and Aain.

Most importantly he also gave striker Batshuayi his full debut in place of two-goal Diego Costa and he certainly took his chance. The Belgian tried a cheeky chip early on and then dragged a shot narrowly wide before grabbing the game’s opening goal after 29 minutes.

Loftus-Cheek had already hit the post when Nemanja Matic cut the ball back for Batshuayi to drill home from eight yards and score his second of the season.

At this stage Chelsea looked very comfortable, especially when Moses – who has a point to prove after being sent on loan to Liverpool, Stoke and West Ham in recent seasons – made it 2-0. The Nigerian international converted from close range after a deep Pedro cross from the left had been steered back into the box by Azpilicueta.

Rovers, however, were given hope after 35 minutes with a neat free-kick routine. Chris Lines’ cross into the box was headed home powerfully by Hartley.

Chelsea’s response was rapid, Batushuayi grabbing his second when he rounded off an excellent team move which ended in a low ball across the box from LoftusCheek. Clarke’s Rovers, roared on by more than 4,000 away fans, never gave up and had their illustrious rivals – five times winners of the trophy – on the rack in the second half.

Clarke went for broke by bringing on strikers Matty Taylor and Jermaine Easter at half-time and was rewarded when Stuart Sinclair raced through after 48 minutes and was brought down by Pedro.

Harrison’s penalty was emphatic and the striker was unlucky not to equalise with a thumping volley that flew only inches over the bar.

Considering Rovers have not reached the third round since 2000 and play two divisions below Conte’s side they were certainly giving the Blues plenty of problems.

In the end Rovers could not quite do it – and Batshuayi was denied a hat-trick when his late goal was ruled offside. But Clarke’s men still departed London with their heads held high – and left Conte with plenty to consider as he prepares for transfer deadline day.

CHELSEA Booked: BRISTOL Booked: Referee: (4-5-1): Goals: ROVERS (4-4-2): Goals: