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Conte explains Terry absence

Cape Town - Chelsea manager Antonio Conte has insisted he will do what he thinks is best for the team, after being questioned over skipper John Terry's continued first-team absence.

The veteran centre-back recently returned to action following a lengthy injury lay-off, featuring in the Blues' 2-1 defeat to London rivals West Ham United in the EFL Cup on Wednesday evening.

However, has been an unused substitute in their last two league fixtures, and is likely to remain on the bench for Sunday's clash with Southampton at St. Mary's Stadium.

When asked why Terry had missed their last two Premier League fixtures, Conte told reporters: "My decisions are only for the best for the team, for the club and to win. 

"If one player is captain or vice-captain, it's not important.

"It's important to find the right solution to take the best decision for the team, in this moment. Yes, I can make a mistake, but I always try to make the best decision.

"We win together and we lose together in every circumstance. I have always to take the best decision for the team, never for an individual player.

"It's logical that John came back from injury and it's not easy to restart and to find quickly the right shape. I'm satisfied [with] him and the team.

"John is an important player for us - if he plays or if he doesn't play - for the changing room, for his team-mates, for the club."

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