Chelsea sent a ‘good message’ – Conte

Antonio Conte declared that Chelsea had “sent a good message” by winning without Diego Costa and N’Golo Kante.

Both players were suspended for the 3-0 win against Bournemouth at Stamford Bridge, where Pedro scored twice and Eden Hazard netted from the penalty spot.

It was Chelsea’s 12th Premier League win in a row and cemented their position at the top of the table.

And Blues boss Conte said: “I think today we sent a good message in general because we think a lot of people wanted to see us without two really important players in Costa and Kante to see if we lost points.

“But it didn’t happen and I am pleased about this. I can count on all my players in the squad.”

Conte also explained his decision not to select Michy Batshuayi and insisted he did not want the striker to leave on loan.

Meanwhile, Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe said Chelsea could go “all the way” in the title race.