Conte lauds Saints striker Gabbiadini
Chelsea manager Antonio Conte has heaped the praise on Southampton striker Manolo Gabbiadini ahead of tomorrow night’s clash.
Conte spoke to the press with the game against Saints in mind for Tuesday night and waxed lyrical about his compatriot Gabbiadini and the impact he has already made on proceedings at St Mary’s.
The Chelsea boss managed Gabbiadini on a couple of occasions when he was in charge of the Italian National Team but is well aware of his qualities from the striker’s time in his homeland for both Sampdoria and Napoli.
I know him very well from when I was coach of the [Italy] national team. He didn’t play much for Napoli so it was very difficult to call him up to the national team. He is a great striker.
Conte, as quoted by the Express, insisted that Gabbiadini’s left foot is right up there with the best in the business and admitted that he had warned his Blues side about the risk they face when up against the 25-year-old.
I think he is a really good player. He has a fantastic left foot. I think one of the best in the world. It is amazing the way he kicks the ball. If someone doesn’t know him, they don’t understand the talent he has.
For sure, I have talked [to the defenders on how to deal with him] but also the keeper.
Gabbiadini made his long-awaited return to the Saints starting line-up in the defeat against Manchester City and is set to start up top in the clash at Stamford Bridge.