All indications tonight from Antonio Conte are that Michy Batshuayi will be allowed to leave the football club on loan assuming a replacement can be found.
That according to Simon Johnson in the Evening Standard, who says that`s the first time the manager has said that. It`s well documented that Conte appears to have no real faith in the young Belgian despite him getting goals. Batshuayi is keen to get a move away from Stamford Bridge as he looks to gain valuable game time ahead of the summer`s World Cup in Russia.
Conte is willing to let that happen, but likens the situation to that of Kenedy, who has left for Newcastle United.
`It’s the same as Kenedy. If arrives another striker, then Batshuayi will go on loan. I think he wants to have the opportunity to play with regularity. I think this is right.`
`If we stay with the same players from the start of the season, it doesn’t change. One player goes out, one player comes in. One player comes in, one player goes out.`
The article goes on to suggest that Batshuayi won`t make the starting XI tomorrow night against Arsenal in the Carabao Cup semi-final, that, despite impressing on Saturday in the Brighton game.
If the Batsman fails to make the cut, with Morata out injured, then surely Eden Hazard will be up for the starring role in his ‘false nine` position. Conte said,
`I don’t know if this is the right time. I think that every player had their chance to play and to show me their value. Now I think I have to make the best decision for the team.`
`Every game is different. The quality of your opponent is different. I have to make the best decision to try and exploit my players in the best way.`
Assuming Edin Dzeko is the incoming striker Batshuayi could be on his way out as early as the weekend. It will be a shame to see the lad go. He has a likeable personality but he must do what he feels is best for him. Unfortunately as Chelsea fans, our interests lie in what`s best for the team and results. Beating Arsenal tomorrow tops that list.
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