Throughout the summer, the Blues had been rebuffed in their attempts to sign a defender until Luiz emerged as a surprise target during the final 36 hours of the transfer window.
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Conte’s successes with Juventus and Italy have been built on training ground work, and with Chelsea not playing any European football this season, there will be plenty of time for that this year. I think that they can improve our squad.
“The coach is an incredible coach, he understands a lot of tactical things and I know he chooses every match the best line-up, so if he needs to play three, four or two [at the back], it doesn’t matter. This is a great opportunity for him and for us, also to improve”.
John Terry, always one to wear his heart on his sleeve, was granted a new one-year contract by Conte but more characters were needed to restore stability to the squad.
“I saw all the players in good fitness – with the players who remained in Cobham we worked very hard”, Conte said.
Eden Hazard has aimed a swipe at Jose Mourinho by insisting Antonio Conte’s man-management has improved the Chelsea dressing room after an “ugly” season. Also, I find him competitive like Barzagli. This is important for me. I am seeing great commitment from him.
“In the last few seasons I have played as a no.10 or as a winger”. Every player until the end of their career can improve. “For this reason we bought Luiz”. I know David Luiz has played in midfield before but, in my mind now, that is not an idea for us.
He said: “He’s (Conte) giving me a lot of confidence and I’m doing very well”.
Spanish left back Alonso joined Chelsea from Fiorentina last month.
‘I think David Luiz is a centre-back, he’s played a lot of games in that position, ‘ the Italian told Chelsea TV. But I think that David Luiz is a good defender, a good centre-back.
Oscar has started the first three League games of the season and helped Chelsea begin the campaign with a 100 per cent record.
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Conte will watch the showdown between two of Chelsea’s main title rivals, but he refused to say who he regards as the greater threat. “With the characteristics of the players we have, you can play with a 3-4-3”.
