Conte: Why I Benched Costa And Hazard Against Tottenham

Chelsea’s manager got us shocked by not starting the duo of Eden Hazard and Diego Costa in the crucial game.

Former Marseille striker Michy was used in place of Costa, while Willian was used instead of Hazard. So surprising (even to Mauricio Pochettino!)

However, the Italian manager has explained why he dropped both Hazard and Costa at the Wembley game, adding that he is not going to try taking other risks with his team selection.

The former Juventus manager is of the opinion that benching the Belgian and the Spaniard for the FA Cup semi-final game against Spurs is no riskier than starting them at the Wembley Stadium.

In Chelsea’s last premier league defeat at Manchester United, the duo delivered poor performances last Sunday, and the boss remains adamant that he has made the best decision for the team.

In his last six games for Chelsea, Costa is yet to score again and has been linked out of Stamford Bridge at the end of the season.

Hazard, though has been in superb form this season, was not able to help his side get the needed three points against Jose Mourinho’s men.