Antonio Conte not surprised by Alvaro Morata's blistering start to the Premier League as Chelsea striker gears up for Manchester City clash with Blues
- Antonio Conte is pleased with Alvaro Morata's rapid adaptation to English league
- He believes regular game time is contributing to Spaniard's impressive form
- Conte lamented loss of David Luiz who is suspended for Manchester City game
Alvaro Morata has adapted well to the Premier League and his recent form for Chelsea is no surprise, says manager Antonio Conte.
The former Real Madrid and Juventus striker has made a strong start in English football, scoring six goals in as many games and is level Manchester United's Romelu Lukaku and City's Sergio Aguero as the league's top scorers.
Morata also scored in Wednesday's 2-1 win over Atletico Madrid in the Champions League but was seen limping after the game.
Alvaro Morata has settled brilliantly at Chelsea, scoring six goals in six matches
David Luiz (left) and Eden Hazard trained ahead of the game against Manchester City
The champions are taking on Pep Guardiola's table-toppers in a mouth-watering clash
Conte reassured fans that the 24-year-old is fully fit to face Manchester City at Stamford Bridge.
'I am not surprised because I know Alvaro very well. To arrive and to go well in this league is not simple,' Conte told reporters on Friday.
'He has improved his physical condition. This is his first chance to play regularly as a No. 9. Don't forget his experiences at Juventus and Real Madrid, he didn't play regularly.'
Conte said suspended defender David Luiz, who was sent off against Arsenal earlier this month, will be missed during the City game.
'He is big a loss for us because he is playing well. He is not a player who is used getting red cards,' Conte added.
'He is a good player with discipline on the pitch. I was a player and I understand that sometimes this can happen but once is OK.'
Tiemoue Bakayoko was another of the Blues players to be put through his paces
Antonio Conte hailed Morata's contribution since arriving from Real Madrid
Thibaut Courtois dives low to his right before getting a palm to the ball at Cobham
The Italian also said that playmaker Eden Hazard was ready for his first league start of the season after an impressive mid-week display against Atletico, while midfielder Danny Drinkwater would miss the City game through injury.
Chelsea are third table, three points behind leaders City, and beat Pep Guardiola's side in both league games last season.
'Manchester City are a very good team, but last season it was the same. They've improved a lot this season with their signings, they've started well and have a lot of confidence,' Conte added.
'We've prepared for the game in only one day. It will not be easy.
Andreas Christensen attempts to hunt down the ball for an interception in a drill
David Luiz will miss the clash against Chelsea as he is still suspended for a red card
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