Antonio Conte has claimed N'Golo Kante was not 100 per cent for the Roma game
N’Golo Kante has missed Chelsea’s last three Premier League games with a hamstring problem but was thought to be in contention for tonight’s clash with Roma.
But the France international was not named in the Blues’ squad for the trip to the Italian capital, leading to speculation about the severity of his injury.
However, Antonio Conte has allayed the supporters’ fears and claimed the reason Kante was not picked was because he was not feeling 100 per cent.
“Kante obviously is the type of player who is very difficult to leave out,” Conte said.
“He just felt he was not 100 per cent and after a big injury I think it’s not right to push the player.
“The player must feel the right feeling and then to play.
“Also if he risks another injury it’s a disaster for us.”
Kante’s absence was firmly felt by the Blues who suffered a 3-0 defeat at the hands of Roma, blowing Group C wide open.
GETTY
N'Golo Kante has missed Chelsea's last three Premier League games
Chelsea star N’Golo Kante forced off with injury
And the fans made it clear on Twitter after the match, as one wrote: “F**k me we miss Kante so much. Seem so sluggish.”
“It looks like Chelsea FC is actually Kante FC! Will Kante come back again?” another added.
“When's Kante coming back? asking for a friend,” a third joked.
“Bakayoko is nowhere and nothing close to a Kant,” another supporter added.
Invalid email
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
