Conference Call: A good start

Antonio Conte was very satisfied with the intensity of his team’s performance in Saturday’s 3-0 win over Arsenal, especially considering the taxing effect the pre-season training has on their legs.

An opening goal from Willian and two from Michy Batshuayi, one in each half, overcame the Gunners in a noisy Bird’s Nest in Beijing, and the scoreline did not flatter the performance.  

‘For sure it was a good game,’ said Conte. ‘It is good to have this type of start but we have to continue to work a lot to improve on the physical and tactical aspect. Pre-season is very important. These type of friendly games are important to play because you understand your level of physical preparation. We must be happy for the commitment of the players and with our football.’

The boss considered the form of two-goal Batshuayi…

‘Last season it was a difficult season for Michy but don’t forget he scored a very important goal to give us the title. I think last season he had a bit of difficulty because it is not easy to play in the Premier League. It is a physical league and a very strong league.

‘After one year he is working very well and he is improving. Me and my staff want to improve every player and Batshuayi is a young player with great potential and it is important for him and for us to work in this way, and for him to understand what I want. For me the striker is very important, he is a point of reference. If he stays in the right position, it is easier for us, for the team and to play good football.’

The only real negative aspect of the game was a first-half injury to Pedro who was involved in a heavy collision and had to be taken off…

‘Pedro went to the hospital and for sure he should be okay but I think he had concussion,’ reported Conte. ‘For this reason, our doctor preferred to take him to the hospital and check him in the right way. It is a pity because in this period it is not good to have this type of injury but he should be okay. I am very happy for this.

‘For sure he stays here [in Beijing] and then if the situation is okay he will come tomorrow to Singapore.’

Conte and his players are travelling to Singapore straight after the game so it was time to say farewell to China…

‘It is always a special game when you have a London derby and to play this kind of derby in China is fantastic,’ said Conte. ‘I want to thank all the Chinese people for this welcome, all the Chelsea and Arsenal fans because to play in this atmosphere is great for me and the players, and I hope in the future to come again to experience this atmosphere.’