Antonio Conte has hinted that he may be prepared to give Michy Batshuayi more of a chance at Chelsea next season following his two-goal showing against Arsenal.
The Belgium international netted either side of half time in the Blues' 3-0 win over their London rivals in Saturday's pre-season friendly clash at the Bird's Nest Stadium in Beijing.
Batshuayi struggled for playing time in his maiden campaign at Stamford Bridge, leading to suggestions that he could either be loaned out or sold permanently in the remaining weeks of the transfer window.
Conte has been impressed by the striker's development, however, and believes that he still has a part to play on the back of his title-clinching strike at West Bromwich Albion in May.
"Last season it was a difficult season for Michy but don't forget he scored a very important goal to give us the title," he told reporters. "I think last season he had a bit of difficulty because it is not easy to play in the Premier League. It is a physical league and a very strong league.
"After one year he is working very well and he is improving. Me and my staff want to improve every player and Batshuayi is a young player with great potential and it is important for him and for us to work in this way, and for him to understand what I want.
"For me the striker is very important, he is a point of reference. If he stays in the right position, it is easier for us, for the team and to play good football."
Batshuayi made 20 Premier League appearances for champions Chelsea in 2016-17, 19 of which came from the bench.
Daniel Lewis
