Conte explains Fabregas change and praises midfielder’s attitude

Chelsea boss Antonio Conte has praised Cesc Fabregas’ response to being left out of the first two Premier League matches.

The Spaniard was an unused substitute against West Ham on Monday but came off the bench at Watford to play a 40-yard pass to Diego Costa for the Blues’ winner.

Conte said he introduced Fabregas, with Chelsea 1-0 down, in an attempt to break the Hornets down.

He said: “I made this substitution because I wanted more quality and because I saw that Watford was thinking only to defend.

“We all know Cesc. He’s a player with a great technique, with a good pass.”

Conte said Fabregas was continuing to work hard on the training ground despite not being in the team – a trait he wants from all his players.

“I’m pleased for his attitude,” Conte said.

“Cesc is working very hard to show me he deserves to play. I want to see this.

“I want to see all the players show me that they deserve to start the game. If I see this attitude, this commitment, I am a very happy manager.”

Conte was also happy with the impact made by other substitutes Victor Moses and Michy Batshuayi, the latter equalising after Eden Hazard’s shot was spilled into his path.

He said: “I’m pleased for Moses, Cesc and Batshuayi because the impact was very good.

“It’s important for me, because this shows a great spirit. It was the same against West Ham.

“It’s normal because when you push for 70 minutes, the opponent pay for the effort during the game, so when the new players come on there is a big impact.”