In his prematch press conference ahead of the Premier League early kickoff against Brighton, Antonio Conte was asked about whether new signing Ross Barkley would start, the and boss confirmed that while he would be in the squad, he wouldn’t be playing from the beginning.
It seemed a long shot, given that the former Everton man had just played 70 minutes in a friendly yesterday having been out for 8 months, but now it’s been confirmed by Conte that he won’t start.
Conte on Barkley debut vs Brighton: "I don't know if I give him a chance to play or wait, if the game doesn't ask for this type of situation." (Disclaimer: He might make the bench but won't start) #CFC
— Nizaar Kinsella (@NizaarKinsella) January 19, 2018
The Italian manager wasn’t even sure that he would bring the midfielder on, instead saying that he would see how the game was going and bring the 24 year old depending on the situation.
It’s disappointing considering how much Chelsea look like they need an injection of pace and creativity in midfield, but fans shouldn’t be surprised. Now it’s a countdown to next midweek, when we might finally see the £15m signing in action.
