Conte: This Is Why I Benched Morata Against Arsenal

Many Chelsea fans are not very pleased that new signing Alvaro Morata is not yet living up to expectations after completing the move from Real Madrid a few weeks back.

The Spanish striker made just two appearances for Chelsea since his record move to the west Londoners, and the clash against Arsenal seemed like a perfect opportunity for him to get some more important minutes before the start of the Premier League campaign.

Instead, the Chelsea boss chose to start Michy Batshauyi, giving the Belgian forward another chance to impress. The former Lyon man barely played last season after his £30m move to Stamford Bridge, but he has had a decent pre-season.

And the Italian manager has explained his decision to bench the former Real Madrid forward for the Community Shield clash against London rivals Arsenal at Wembley.

Conte, justifying his decision, told BT Sport that fans ought not to be surprised by this.

‘It is quite normal when a new player arrives. The player needs a little time to adapt to my methods and idea of football, so it is normal.’ the manager said.

Arsene Wenger’s side eventually won the game on penalties after a 4-1 shootout victory against the premier league champions at Wembley.

Morata took part in the penalties shootout, but lost his piece, to the annoyance of the fans.