Antonio Conte has defended his decision to leave Michy Batshuayi out of Chelsea‘s starting eleven in the 0-0 draw with Everton.

Michy looked to be in line to be recalled into Conte’s setup with Alvaro Morata serving a one-match suspension on Saturday. however, Batshuayi was made watch from the bench for much of the 0-0 draw and was not introduced until the 71st minute.

Conte complained about not having Morata after the game, but then went on to defend his choice to start Eden Hazard as a false No.9 ahead of natural frontman, Batshuayi. ‘I think there is nothing to explain. I decided to play with Hazard, Willian and Pedro,’ said Conte.

‘It is not the first time. I have to make the best decision for my team. I think today I made the best decision. ‘Don’t forget today our striker, Morata, was out. I think, for us, this player is very important. ‘But at the same time we played with second options, and with three Number 10s. But we must be more clinical.

He added: ‘Today we played without our striker. But this season we played many times in this way. ‘Don’t forget Michy started many games at the start of the season, but then had an injury.