Fabregas made the starting XI for the first time since the 3-0 defeat to Arsenal in September.
He was the only change to a the side that won an eighth league game in a row.
And Conte explained why he decided to pick the midfielder instead of Nemanja Matic.
“Nemanja Matic suffered a little muscular problem and for this reason I change the line-up,” Conte told Sky Sports.
“But I think Cesc is a good fit in good shape and he can show all of his value today. It is a big game.
“I trust in him and I hope Cesc and all the team can do a good game.”