Antonio Conte Praises Michy Batshuayi’s Progressive Performance, Claims He may Play with Two Strikers

Antonio Conte admits he found it difficult to deal with Michy Batshuayi last season but insists he is now able to count on the striker. Following his £33 million arrival from Marseille, Batshuayi started only one Premier League game in his first campaign at Chelsea.

This season, Batshuayi has been given more chances to impress and has scored seven goals in 10 appearances so far. And Conte is impressed at the rate the Belgian striker is learning to adapt to Chelsea’s system. ‘Michy is improving a lot, especially under a tactical aspect,’ said the Italian.

‘He is working very well and understanding what I want from him. He’s improving a lot. I am very happy. Tonight he didn’t score but he played very well. ‘I don’t judge a striker if he scores or not scores, I judge my players on the performance and Michy is improving a lot. He has a lot of room for improvement.

‘Last season was difficult for him but it was also difficult for me. ‘Now he’s ready to start and come out and during the game and have a good impact. Sometimes if I decide to play with two strikers, maybe I don’t know, but it’s important to know I can count on him.’

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