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.
‘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.
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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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