Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger has no idea why he was dropped by Antonio Conte
Antonio Rudiger has revealed he has no idea why Antonio Conte dropped him from the matchday squad that took on Southampton on Saturday.
The Chelsea defender was a noticeable absentee from the side that produced a stunning comeback against Southampton, as Rudiger failed to even make the bench for the game.
Rudiger has been a constant presence for Chelsea in his first season at the club, making 21 Premier League stars and playing 39 times in total.
More: Football
And Chelsea fans were wondering if perhaps an injury might have forced Rudiger to sit out the Southampton before Conte insisted it was a tactical decision after the game.
Rudiger confirmed he was not carrying any physical issue and seemed to be in the dark about why Conte opted to drop him.
AdvertisementAdvertisement
He told “Das aktuelle Sportstudio”: I have no idea. I am fully fit.
One possible reason for Contes decision is the fact Rudiger spoke out against his managers tactics after a draw with West Ham.
Chelsea drew 1-1 with the Hammers after another lacklustre performance and Rudiger admitted he was confused by Contes instructions.
I think in the second half we [could] finish the game [off], he said. But like the last few months, we didnt and we [conceded].
Chelsea 2017/18 Fixtures
Burnley (A) – Thurs April 19
Southampton (FA Cup) (N) – Sun April 22
Swansea City (A) – Sat April 28
Liverpool (H) – Sun May 6
Huddersfield Town (H) – Wed April 9
Newcastle (A) – Sun May 13
For me, its not easy to explain. I dont understand why after 1-0 we always drop and let the opponent get more ball possession.
Conte has reacted poorly to criticism from players in the past, with David Luiz being practically ostracized from the starting eleven after he questioned his manager last October.
Luiz has played just twice in the league since that row with Conte, although injury has played a significant part in his absence.
Rudiger will have a chance to reclaim his spot in the squad on Thursday when Chelsea travel to Turf Moor to take on Burnley.
More: Chelsea FC
AdvertisementAdvertisement
[contf]
[contfnew]
METRO
[contfnewc]
[contfnewc]
