Rudiger says he has ‘no idea’ why he was dropped

Antonio Rudiger has told German television he has “no idea” why he was left out for Chelsea’s win at Southampton on Saturday.

Blues boss Antonio Conte confirmed after the game at St Mary’s that it was “a tactical decision” to drop the Germany defender, who has subsequently confirmed he is fully fit.

There has been speculation that Conte is unhappy that Rudiger appeared to question the Italian’s tactics following the recent 1-1 draw at home to West Ham.

Speaking after that game, Rudiger was quoted as saying: “I think in the second half we could have finished the game, but we didn’t.

“For me, it’s not easy to explain. I don’t understand why after 1-0 we always drop and let the opponent get more ball possession.”