Conte keen to bring in a defender

Antonio Conte says he will look to sign a defender who can have a long-term career with Chelsea, as he continues to shape his squad.

The Blues have strengthened their midfield and attack with the purchases of N’Golo Kante and Michy Batshuayi, but are light in defence following the departure of Baba Rahman and Kurt Zouma’s knee injury.

Conte selected 19-year-old Ola Aina on the bench for the 2-1 win at Watford and is keen to bring in a more experienced player.

He said: “We have only five defenders – the four defenders that started the game today and Aina, a guy from the academy, who is very good with great potential.

“If one is injured or banned we are in trouble. But the club and me know this, we are talking every day to improve this squad.

“I don’t want to buy only to buy a player, I want to buy the right player for Chelsea – for the present and for the future, a good prospect.”

Conte was also full of praise for Cesc Fabregas, who came off the bench at Vicarage Road.