Conte backs Morata after missed chances

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Antonio Conte has insisted Alvaro Morata can become one of the world’s best strikers and his wayward finishing in recent matches is not a cause for concern. 

Morata missed several chances – including two glorious one-on-one opportunities – in the 2-2 draw with Arsenal, prompting Conte to defend the Spaniard.

And Conte once again backed Morata prior to Saturday’s third-round FA Cup tie against Championship side Norwich.

“Morata scored 12 goals in this season and he made seven assists,” Conte said. “Until now the stats are good for this player.

“He is a young striker who can become one of the best in the world. In the future I do not see problems with Morata.

“The striker’s job is to score but they also make mistakes. Last two games Morata is unlucky but I was pleased of his work for the team.”

Conte compared Morata to Ross Barkley, who completed his move to Chelsea from Everton on Friday. 

“Morata is a young player – only 25 years old. It is the first season he is playing with regularity,” he said.

“I am very happy, the club is very happy, for the commitment of this player. Like Barkley, he has a lot of space to improve.”