Chelsea boss Antonio Conte: 'I will rotate my defenders'

Chelsea boss Antonio Conte has suggested that he was right to leave Andreas Christensen out of his starting lineup for last week's game with West Ham United.

At a time when Christensen has struggled with injury and fatigue, Gary Cahill was brought back into the team but the Englishman was at fault for the Hammers' equaliser during the 1-1 draw at Stamford Bridge.

Conte has reiterated that Christensen needed time out of the side, and has hinted that he could continue to tinker with his back three during the closing weeks of the campaign.

At a press conference, the 48-year-old told reporters: "Don't forget we're talking about a young player who is playing at this level for the first time. You lose a lot of mental energy. He can be a bit tired under this aspect.

"The chance to play Gary Cahill was right. He's an important player for Chelsea and the country. At this moment I have four centre-backs. From now until the end of the season I will make rotations."

Chelsea can strengthen their hold on fifth place in the Premier League standings when they face Southampton on Saturday.