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Chelsea boss Antonio Conte hits out at doubters over David Luiz injury

BAKU, AZERBAIJAN - NOVEMBER 22:  David Luiz of Chelsea in action during the UEFA Champions League group C match between Qarabag FK and Chelsea FC at Baki O
Image: David Luiz has made just one Chelsea appearance since October 31

Chelsea head coach Antonio Conte says he is "disappointed" that some people are questioning his honesty over the fitness of David Luiz.

Luiz has started just one game since the 3-0 Champions League group-stage loss at Roma on October 31, having been dropped for the visit of Manchester United on November 5 amid talk of a fallout.

That appearance came in last month's 4-0 win at Qarabag, but since then Luiz has been out with inflammation around his knee and Conte has previously bristled at suggestions of a breakdown in their relationship.

Antonio Conte insists the top four is his immediate concern after losing to West Ham on Saturday
Image: Antonio Conte is frustrated his honesty has been questioned regarding David Luiz's injury

Asked about the issue again ahead of Saturday's Premier League visit of Southampton, Conte said he would like Chelsea medical director Paco Biosca to corroborate Luiz's injury.

"I understand that someone is thinking that I'm not telling the truth. I'm disappointed about this, but I can understand it," Conte said.

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Charlie Adam and Liam Rosenior felt Antonio Conte dropped David Luiz for Manchester United clash to show him he maintains control over the Chelsea changing room.

"I like to tell you the truth at every moment. I'd like to tell you a bad truth rather than a good lie.

"I will try to solve the situation. I think we can call the doctor and organise a (media) conference with the doctor for him to explain the medical situation."

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Brazil defender Luiz is continuing his rehabilitation at Chelsea's Cobham training base and has this week started running again.

LONDON, ENGLAND - MAY 21:  David Luiz of Chelsea poses with the Premier League trophy after the Premier League match between Chelsea and Sunderland at Stam
Image: David Luiz was a key figure in Chelsea's title success last season

The 30-year-old, re-signed from Paris St Germain in August 2016, was an integral figure in Chelsea's title win last season, but has recently been linked with a move amid suggestions he is unhappy.

Conte says all of Chelsea's players should be happy.

"I understand that every player wants to play, this is normal. But we must be very, very, three, four, 1,000 times happy to have this job, to have this life," Conte said.

Andreas Christensen
Image: Andreas Christensen has been in fine form at the heart of Chelsea's defence

The form of Andreas Christensen has led many to suggest Luiz will struggle to regain his place once he has recovered his fitness. Conte played that prospect down, due to the fixture schedule.

He added: "Until now, my players - every player - have all played a lot of games.

"We have to play every three days and it's right to make rotations and give opportunities to every player."

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