Antonio Conte sends message to Chelsea fans about Davide Zappacosta
Antonio Conte has been thrilled with how Davide Zappacosta has adapted to life in the Premier League with Chelsea
Antonio Conte has revealed his delight at the way Davide Zappacosta has adapted to life at Chelsea.
The Italian full-back arrived at Stamford Bridge on transfer deadline day last month as the Blues tied up a deal to bring him in from Torino.
Zappacosta scored his first goal for Chelsea in the Champions League last week when he netted during the 6-0 thrashing of Qarabag at Stamford Bridge.
The defender will be hoping to hold down a regular spot in the Chelsea first team this season as he bids to enjoy a successful debut campaign in the Premier League.
And Conte has been delighted by his attitude since his arrival at the west London club this summer.
Conte told a news conference at Chelsea’s Cobham training ground on Friday afternoon: “For him it was his first appearance in the Champions League.
“To score a goal, you must be happy and it helps improve your confidence – all positive things. He scored an amazing goal. He was honest to say he tried to cross but during the game he had other chances to score, and don’t forget at Leicester he was very close to scoring another goal.
“This is positive, and he’s a really good guy. Davide knew very well my idea of football and for this reason he was ready to start the game against Qarabag.
“He’s in a good physical condition. I was pleased with his performance. Now he has to continue to improve himself and to adapt to this league.”
Chelsea are aiming to defend their Premier League title this season after their impressive triumph in Conte’s first campaign at the club last term.
However, the Blues did not have the distraction of any European football last season as they were able to focus purely on domestic affairs.
The west London side return to Premier League action next weekend when they take on Stoke City at the bet365 Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
