Luiz can be one of world’s best defenders – Conte

Antonio Conte has challenged recent signings David Luiz and Marcos Alonso to prove they deserve a place in Chelsea’s first team – and has pledged to improve Luiz as a player.

Blues boss Conte was keen to bring in two defenders ahead of the recent transfer deadline.

Left-back Alonso, 25, was duly brought in from Fiorentina, while Luiz made a surprise return to Chelsea from Paris St-Germain two years after being sold to the French club.

“I think we have improved our squad. We needed two defenders in this transfer market and Alonso and David Luiz have arrived,” said Conte.

“I think both are good players that can improve our squad. Now it is important for them to work very hard and go into our idea of football and show me they deserve to play.”

And Conte appeared to suggest that neither player would start Sunday’s game at Swansea.

“I think the new players need a bit of time to work with a new method, philosophy and new idea of football. It’s important to give them a bit of time for this reason,” the Italian said.

Luiz was a cult figure among Chelsea fans during his first spell at the club but also attracted criticism for some defensive lapses.

The Brazilian operated in midfield for a spell but Conte has made it clear he has been re-signed to play as a centre-back.

Conte also insisted that, even at the age of 29, Luiz still has time on his side and can develop into one of the world’s top defenders.

“I like defenders who like to play football,” Conte explained.

“I know he can improve in defensive situations, but I am very happy – he is a good guy and positive for the changing room.

“I think a defender must be able to play football and to defend, but I also think a coach must improve his players.

“The most important thing for a coach is not only to win, lose or draw, but to work with players and improve them – to work on their weaknesses and make the player stronger.

“Every player until the end of their career can improve. You can improve when you are 32 or 33.

“You can always improve. I know this from my own experience when I was a footballer.

“For David Luiz, 29 is a fantastic age for him to go on and become one of the best defenders in the world.

“He wanted to play for Chelsea and this is a great opportunity for him and for us.”