Antonio Conte: My decisions have been justified

ByPete Sharland

Updated 25/04/2017 at 22:19 GMT

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte has said that he feels his team selections were correct for the games against Tottenham Hotspur and Southampton after his side secured back-to-back 4-2 wins on Tuesday evening.

Chelsea followed up Saturday's victory against Tottenham in the semi-finals of the FA Cup with a victory on Tuesday led by two-goal Diego Costa, with Eden Hazard and Gary Cahill also scoring.

Conte's team selection ahead of both matches was questioned, as he rested Hazard and Costa for the game against Spurs, and then dropped Willian and Pedro to the bench for the Southampton match.

However speaking after the victory on Tuesday Conte said he believes his choices were correct.

Premier League

Henderson agrees personal terms with Nottingham Forest - reports

15/06/2022 at 17:30

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte celebrates after the match with Diego Costa

Image credit: Reuters

"It was a good win. Today I have to be pleased with the effort of my players. It wasn't easy after a tough game against Tottenham. Southampton have good players and play good football.

"My choice was right for the game against Tottenham and the game today. It's not easy to make these strong choices.

"To score at the end of the first half was very important. I was confident. I was seeing the team show a great will to win. In this part of the season, it's not easy.

2017, Antonio Conte celebration, Chelsea, Getty Images

Image credit: Getty Images

"We must be confident for the future. It's important to look at ourselves and not the other [Spurs]."

Second-placed Tottenham Hotspur travel to Crystal Palace on Wednesday before both teams are in action on Sunday, with Chelsea travelling to Everton and Spurs facing Arsenal in the North London derby.

Premier League

Vardy not ruling out England return with Kane and Rashford injured

10/03/2020 at 08:52

Premier League

Paper Round: Dybala not interested in Man Utd, Bayern lead Ramsey chase

15/11/2018 at 23:05

Premier League

Paper Round: Real draw up January shortlist, Roma cast doubt on Ramsey move

12/11/2018 at 08:06