Arsenal legend Ian Wright feels Chelsea’s summer signing Tiemoue Bakayoko has not done enough to warrant a starting spot ahead of the likes of Pedro and Willian. The France international has cemented his spot at the heart of the Blues’ midfield following his move from AS Monaco last summer.

Speaking on BBC Radio Five Live, Wright is still unconvinced over Bakayoko’s abilities and feels one of Pedro or Willian deserve the starting role, although they play in a different position altogether, he said: “Just a quick one on Bakayoko, because I have to get it out otherwise I’ll forget. I’m not having him yet, I’m sorry. I can’t understand how he can get in the team before Willian and Pedro at the moment. Especially, when he played further forward. I need to see a lot more from him, that’s all I’m saying.”

Cesc Fabregas has been the usual partner alongside N’Golo Kante, but Conte has opted for a change this term with the former being utilised in an attacking midfield role. The Spaniard excelled in the position during his time at Arsenal and Barcelona, and Conte is persisting with Fabregas in a similar route – due to his excellent link-up play with his forwards.

Bakayoko put in a solid performance during the 1-0 triumph over Manchester United last weekend, but he may have to continue his form over an extended period in order to build up his reputation. Nevertheless, the Frenchman is winning the hearts of the club’s faithful after he coloured his hair blue after scoring his maiden goal for Chelsea earlier in the campaign.

The former Rennes graduate is likely to have a huge role to play following the international break when the Blues make the visit to west Midlands to take on West Bromwich Albion. Thereafter, they face Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool, and that could be a title-defining moment for the Blues, who are already nine points behind leaders Manchester City.