Conte says he could play Hazard as a number nine

Chelsea boss Antonio Conte says he could use the option of playing Hazard as a number 9  in the absence of injured Alvaro Morata when Chelsea face Crystal Palace today in the English Premier League. Conte is widely expected to start Mitchy Batshuayi with Hazard and Pedro as number 10s with Willian as a substitute due to his late arrival from International duty.

Conte said: "If you compare Michy with last season he has improved a lot.

"He understands this league because it’s not simple. He understands our style of football but don’t forget he’s another young player and he’s working hard to improve.

"This season he’s finding many opportunities to play, in the Champions League, Premier League and Carabao Cup, coming on and starting games. Last season he had few opportunities but this season he’s playing a lot. The most important thing is to show he’s improving.

"Don’t forget, as a striker I can also utilise Eden Hazard. Last season we played two games with Hazard as the number nine, with Willian and Pedro, and if I see a situation we are ready to do that again, but Michy is showing he deserves to play."

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