Michy Batshuayi bagged a huge goal for Chelsea last night (Picture: Getty)

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte has explained why he values Michy Batshuayi so highly as a member of his squad despite him not always being a regular for the Blues.

The Belgium international saw limited playing time last season and continues to find himself as Conte’s backup striker with the £60million summer arrival of Alvaro Morata.

Still, Batshuayi has excelled in a super-sub role and made an impact whenever used this season, particularly as he bagged a crucial winner against Atletico Madrid on Wednesday night, and Conte insists he is a hugely valued member of his squad.

The Italian tactician also explained that he initially used the 23-year-old more sparingly last season because it look him time to fully settle and adjust to the rigours of the Premier League.

Batshuayi celebrated his goal with Antonio Conte (Picture: Getty)
Batshuayi has struggled to become a regular for Chelsea (Picture: Getty)

‘Michy is a young player. Last season he struggled a lot to understand the league,’ Conte said.

‘He is improving and his commitment is very good. He has a lot of room for improvement. He has to continue this way.

‘Don’t forget he scored against Qarabag and Nottingham Forest. For him to score it is always important.

Conte spoke highly of Batshuayi after the game (Picture: Getty)

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‘I want this type of player, with a great ability to try to make a change game by game.’

Batshuayi has already notched up five goals this season, despite starting just three matches in all competitions.

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