I was right to rest attacking stars vs Spurs, says Conte

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte feels his decision to rest Eden Hazard, Cesc Fabregas and Diego Costa against Tottenham paid off as his side crushed Southampton.

The three attacking players were named on the bench for last Saturday’s FA Cup semi-final clash with Spurs, with the trio only introduced after the hour mark as the Blues won 4-2. Those same players were the inspiration as Conte’s side swept aside the Saints by the same scoreline to go seven clear at the summit of the Premier League, and Conte felt his decision had been vindicated when he spoke post match. 

“After winning it’s normal to consider this, that my choice was right to rest the players against Tottenham, for the Southampton match,” said Conte. “It’s not an easy decision for the coaches, and this is the responsibility to make these strong choices. But I have a squad of great men and great players.” 

The tie with the Saints was poised at 1-1 before captain Gary Cahill’s header in stoppage time of the first half sent the Blues into the break 2-1 up, a goal which Conte felt was crucial as his side went on to claim the three points.

“To score this goal at the end of the first half was very important for us, but I was confident because I was seeing the team that played to win,” said Conte. “I was a footballer and I know what happens in every single player, and when I see the effort my players made [tonight] we must be confident for the future.” 

With seven points between Chelsea and Spurs now, the title is very much in the Blues own hands, and the pressure on Spurs, who play away to Crystal Palace on Wednesday as they look to keep the title race alive. However, Conte is adamant that his team’s focus must be on their own game, not Spurs’, as they look to secure the title in their five remaining games. 

“It wasn’t easy to play after the game against Tottenham [in Saturday’s FA Cup semi-final] and to play this type of team, because Southampton showed today they are a very good team with good personality,” said Conte. “My players deserved this win for the great effort that they showed. 

“It’s important for us to look at ourselves [not Tottenham’s results]. This is the most important thing. The race will continue until the end. For this reason we must be ready and prepare for the next game the right way.” 

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