Why Antonio Conte Should Start Using Michy Batshuayi More
Chelsea pulled off a 4-2 win against Watford owing to a stunning brace scored by Michy Batshuayi, after last weekend’s embarrassing loss to Crystal Palace. The only reason they won against a resilient Hornets side was the Belgian hitman. Now being branded as a ‘super sub’, Batshuayi earned a spot for himself in the hearts of all Chelsea fans after scoring the brace. So, why hasn’t Antonio Conte handed him more starts?
It was at Standard Liege that Batshuayi really got a taste of top-flight football, and after a stellar 2013/2014 season where he scored 22 goals in 43 appearances, he moved to Marseille in 2014. He was catapulted to greater heights at Marseille, and after two seasons in France, he joined Chelsea in 2016.
Batshuayi certainly cut a peripheral figure for large parts of last season. He did not receive as much playing time on the field, but whenever he came on, Batshuayi put up quite a show. His impressive end to the season and heroics in the Blues’ pre-season tour should have seen him become a regular of sorts in Chelsea’s line-up this time, but that was not the case.
In fact, when Conte subbed Alvaro Morata with Willian instead of Batshuayi against Manchester City, fans and critics voiced their frustration, especially since that could have remarkably changed the outcome of the game.
The main reason behind Batshuayi receving less than adequate playing time last season was Diego Costa’s fiery form. Antonio Conte’s usage of a 3-4-3 system which deploys one solitary central striker, only appeared to be reserved for Costa for much of last season, which reduced Batshuayi to the role of a deputy. To make matters worse, Chelsea were hardly ever in need of a back-up striker last season, which only limited his chances further.
If it was Costa last season, this time it’s Alvaro Morata. Batshuayi certainly made a strong point against Watford. The Hornets could have walked away with an easy win had it not been for Batshuayi’s goals.
Moreover, the best thing about Batshuayi is how he chose to deal with the troubling situation. Lack of game time is a worrying factor for any striker but he did not give up and feel sorry for himself as many in his situation would have. Whenever he has been on the pitch, he has given his absolute best, and it seems to be paying off this term.
There is absolutely no doubt that Batshuayi has what it takes to be a star at Chelsea. What he needs is a chance to show what he can do and, hopefully, Conte will give him more chances as the season progresses, because if anyone deserves it, it’s him.