Antonio Conte was full of praise for Michy Batshuayi. Everton were interested to sign him in the summer.
Antonio Conte has showered heaps of praise on Michy Batshuayi after Chelsea defeated Everton 2-1 to reach the Carabao Cup quarter-finals on Wednesday.
Antonio Rudiger and Willian scored for the home side, but they were given a tough competition by the rejuvenated visitors.
Although Batshuayi didn’t score in the match, Conte was full of praise for the 24-year-old striker.
The Belgian was given a start at Stamford Bridge after he scored two goals in Chelsea’s 4-3 win over Watford at the weekend.
Conte said after the match that Batshuayi is improving on tactical aspects and that he can finally trust him to start on a regular basis.
The Italian adds that Batshuayi is making a good impact, and that he can count on him now.
“Michy is improving a lot, especially under a tactical aspect,” Conte said, as quoted by The Standard. “He is working very well and understanding what I want from him. He’s improving a lot. I’m very happy. Tonight he didn’t score but he played very well.
“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.”
Batshuayi struggled for regular games last season, and was reportedly targeted by Everton in the summer transfer window.
With Everton badly needing to sign a striker in January, a loan move (or permanent) for Batshuayi would have been an ideal scenario.
However, Conte’s latest comments suggest that the Belgian is gradually winning the confidence of his manager.
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