Chelsea defender Kurt Zouma has backed Antonio Conte in his decision to delay his first-team return until the player’s fitness is in place.
The Frenchman suffered a horrific ACL tear in February, and is yet to make an appearance under Conte since. However, he’s working well for his return at the moment, as he’s already training with the senior side and made his third Chelsea Development Squad (U23) outing yesterday.
After the match Zouma talked about his current situation, and how he’s happy to be able to get a chance with the U23 team.
I am very pleased to play another 90 minutes. I need to play, keep going and to work because I was out for a long time. I am very happy to play (for the Under-23s), I need game-time. I am used to being with the first team, but I am so lucky because I can play with the Under-23s and with a very good team.
The skipper (Terry) is still there, he’s still sharp and in good form. He did well (against Southampton Under-23s). It’s very good to get some advice from him.
I want to prove to the owner that he picked well when he chose Antonio Conte for the next three years. For me, that counts more than titles. It’s not going to be easy (to finish top).
There are six sides in the hunt for the title, one of them will win, three will go into the Champions League and the other two in the Europa League. This Premier League season is probably the hardest ever.
– Kurt Zouma, Standard
Chelsea stars John Terry, Cesc Fabregas and Michy Batshuayi were also part of the side, with the latter scoring two great goals to help the side win Southampton U23 3-2 at Cobham.
