Chelsea boss Antonio Conte insists Pedro is keeping Willian out of his starting XI simply because the Spanish winger is in better form than his rival.
Willian, 28, has made just one appearance for the Blues in November following the passing of his mother.
The Brazilian was given time off following her death but returned to the club a fortnight ago and has only appeared as a substitute in the side’s 2-1 win against Tottenham.
It’s been suggested that Willian’s struggling to come to terms with losing his mother but Conte insists he’s out of the starting line-up due to Pedro’s great form.
‘Pedro is playing great football. He’s enjoying this type of football and showing his quality,’ said Conte.
‘It’s not easy for me to make the decision between him and Willian but he’s playing very well and deserved to play [against Spurs].
‘I’m very happy for him and [Victor] Moses, another player who in pre-season you wouldn’t think would be in the starting XI.
‘Pedro scored a great goal but he worked a lot for the team, that’s what I want to see and it’s important to continue in this way.
‘It’s also important for us to see Willian after a bad period for him.’
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