Important not to rush Bakayoko – Conte

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Chelsea boss Antonio Conte says it was important to ease Tiémoué Bakayoko back from his recent injury.

The French midfielder, signed from Monaco during the summer, impressed as a substitute against Arsenal on Sunday.

Many fans on social media have argued that he should have started the game and ought to now be considered a first-choice player.

But Conte insists Bakayoko has needed time to adapt to English football and to fully recover from a knee problem.

“Baka now has started to play and I think he is playing very well,” said Conte.

“Don’t forget last season he finished the season with an injury in his knee. Now he is in good physical condition.

“He is starting to adapt to our style of football.”