Conte backs Batshuayi amid speculation over striker’s future

Chelsea boss Antonio Conte says has no doubt that Michy Batshuayi is ready to start if first-choice striker Diego Costa is unavailable.

Batshuayi joined the Blues this summer and, although he has started two EFL Cup games, the 23-year-old is yet to make his full Premier League debut.

There has duly been speculation that the Belgian could return to his former club Marseille on loan and that AC Milan are interested in signing him in January.

But Costa, who has scored six goals in seven Premier League starts so far this season, will be suspended if he picks up another yellow card.

And Conte believes Batshuayi could fill the void left by Costa if needed.

“Michy is a young player but he has great, great potential,” Conte said.

“He can grow a lot to become a fantastic player for Chelsea. I can tell he is ready to play at the start.

“He has played from the start in two cup games and has played very well.”

Despite Costa facing a one-game suspension if he is cautioned against Leicester on Saturday, Conte wants the Spain international to play with his normal commitment.

“We know the situation and Diego knows. But the situation was also the same before the Hull City game,” Conte said.

“I think we must think to the present and not look forward. Diego knows very well his situation but he must fight in the same way as in previous games. I hope he doesn’t take another yellow card.”

Batshuayi has scored once in five substitute appearances in the league, with two goals in two League Cup starts.