CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
Conte: "I'm happy with Morata, he is Chelsea's number nine"
The Chelsea manager says he does not have a problem with Diego Costa and also spoke about comparisons to Simeone and Koke and Saúl Niguez.
Antonio Conte faced the media before Chelsea play Atletico Madrid on Wednesday night at the Wanda Metropolitano. He assured that his chelsea side were fit, aside from Pedro, who has a slight problem and spoke about Koke, Saúl, Morata and Diego Costa along with comparisons to Diego Simeone in his way of setting up his side.
What do you think of Koke and Saúl?
They are two massive players. Saúl is young but he looks like he is going to be a top player. Koke has experience and is so important to Atletico. I know Saúl well from the under-21 and he is a lovely footballer.
Do you think Morata was undervalued when he arrived at Chelsea?
He is very important for us and is 24 years old. Before, he wasn't in the starting team and now he starts with us, as our number nine, which brings with it pressure and responsibility. He has arrived in a new country with new customs and it takes a strong peron to make it. He has responded well and I'm happy with his performances and happy to have him with us.
Is it time for Hazard to return to his best?
Hazard played really well last season, he showed his talent and this competition is important for him and he wants to take it to the next level. He is fit and ready to play.
Chelsea looking for a draw?
We will try to win all three points. I saw Atletico's first game against Roma and maybe they deserved to win. We won the first game and now it's an important game for both teams. We respect Atletico, and we intend to give our very best. Last year, we didn't play in this competition and now we are keen to compete.
Will you greet Diego Costa when you see him in the stadium?
I don't have a problem with Diego Costa, he wanted to leave and we wish him the best in the future.
The Spanish teams dominating the competition in recent times
They have dominated the Champions League and don't forget the Europa League. The Spanish teams dominate Europe, in general. They are very good, strong, they have experience and at the moment that's the way it is. We will try to change that dynamic.
Chelsea are a bit like Atletico. Do you like the comparison?
I am aware that when I wanted Atletico playing they are well organised. When you play against Barcelona and Real Madrid, you have to be organised. It is difficult to compare, I prefer others to talk about that kind of thing. But it's not a bad comparison.
