Conte Explains Community Shield shoot-out Defeat Decisions

In his assessment of the Community Shield shoot-out defeat, Antonio Conte explained why Thibaut Courtois took a penalty today and also gave his reaction to a couple of crucial decisions made at Wembley, the club's website writes.

First up, the boss reviewed Pedro’s late red card, which preceded Arsenal’s equaliser, as well as Willian’s booking for simulation in the first half when replays suggested he had been fouled.

‘For sure there is disappointment to finish with 10 men for the second game against Arsenal, after the FA Cup final,’ Conte said.

‘I didn’t see the images; I also didn’t see the yellow card for Willian. A lot of people told me the penalty was clear. For sure there is a bit of frustration. You know very well you have to respect the referee’s decision, but for sure it can make you a bit angry.

‘This game was a tough game for both teams,’ he added. ‘We tried to win, and we tried to improve our physical condition because in six days we start the league.

‘Now the most important thing is to continue to work and to improve our team.’

Courtois and Alvaro Morata missed from the spot

‘ Courtois is one of the best players to kick a penalty. If you have a player that shows you during training to be one of the best, you pick him to shoot a penalty.

‘Don’t forget also that Morata is a forward and he did the same.’

Conte said all our new signings need a bit of time to adapt

‘Morata has missed work but that’s normal, he has only stayed with us for two weeks. It’s very important for him to find a good physical condition and to understand our idea of football. That’s normal. It’s the same for Rudiger and for Bakayoko.’