Chelsea boss Antonio Conte has defended his management of Willian this season.

The Brazil midfielder has scored eleven goals and produced seven assists this term, but is not guaranteed a start by Conte.

And the Italian insisted: "Do you think I'm crazy when I put Willy on the bench? I have to make the best choices for the team, do not I? Now he deserves to play.

"If a player deserves to play and also shows in training, he is in top form and he also carries out his defensive tasks, then he plays. If not, he will stay on the bench.

"But this does not only apply to one player, but to all of my players. This is what a winning mentality is. He is playing now and I am very happy with my choice. "Willian earned a place in the previous game and he played well. I made a fantastic choice and I would like to receive the credit for it!"