I Won’t Blame Palace Defeat On Moses’ Absence – Conte

Antonio Conte has refused to blame the defeat of Chelsea on the absence of Victor Moses as the Premier League leaders were exposed by Crystal Palace.

The Blues lost at home for just the second time this time against Crystal Palace with Pedro playing as a wing back.

Cesc Fabregas slotted the hosts into a predictable lead after five minutes before stand-out star Wilfried Zaha hit back four minutes later.

Belgian striker Christian Benteke turned the game on it’s head with a stunning solo goal – putting Thibaut Courtois on the ground before cheekily chipping in the 11th minute winner.

In the absence of the injured Victor Moses, Conte decided to go for the attacking option and switch Pedro there in the Nigerian’s place.

He ignored natural defenders like Nathan Ake and Kurt Zouma in the hope Pedro would provide more of an offensive option.

Chelsea certainly were a constant threat in the final third as Pedro powered forward time and time again.

But his lack of experience on the defensive side shone through as the visitors exploited the gaps he left behind him time and time again.

“Victor is an important player for us, he is playing a great season. I think Pedro played very well in that position as wing-back.

“To play as a wing-back as a winger like Pedro and Moses is more offensive [minded]. It shows we want to play always football and win every game. But I repeat Pedro played well for me.”