Antonio Conte Praises Professional Approach After Chelsea Book Carabao Cup Semi-Final Spot

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte admitted he was relieved to avoid extra-time against Bournemouth, but praised the character of his squad after they booked a Carabao Cup semi-final spot.

The Blues were indebted to substitute Alvaro Morata, the Spaniard's stoppage time goal ensuring Conte's men progressed in regulation time with a 2-1 win.

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Speaking in his post-match press conference, Conte was full of praise for the character of his players.

‘"Last season we were eliminated in the fourth round by West Ham. This season we must be happy with this achievement and to reach the semi-final of one of the two cups in England. It’s great for us, especially because we reached the semi-final with a lot of rotations.

"From the first game against Nottingham Forest I made a lot of rotations, and for this reason I am very happy. I had good responses from my players. In this cup they showed they are very professional."

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The Blues boss was also quick to praise 17-year old defender Ethan Ampadu, who starred in the heart of Chelsea's defence, despite picking up an early booking.

"‘After one minute and 40 seconds the ref decided to book a player who is 17 years old. Ampadu played the whole game with this problem. That’s not easy. He had to play 93 minutes with this danger, but he showed great maturity and personality.

"I have spoken about this player before in an enthusiastic way. Despite his young age, he is showing great maturity."