Abraham is ‘the future for Chelsea’, says Conte

The 19-year-old is impressing while on loan at Bristol City, with 11 goals in 16 appearances, and the Blues boss hinted at a role for him next season

Antonio Conte says young striker Tammy Abraham is “the future for Chelsea”.

The 19-year-old is drawing plaudits while on loan at Championship outfit Bristol City, scoring 11 goals in 16 appearances, to earn a first call-up to the England Under-21 squad in September.

Conte gave Michy Batshuayi a chance to impress up front as Chelsea were knocked out of the EFL Cup by West Ham on Wednesday and hinted at a role at Stamford Bridge for Abraham next season.

“Abraham is another young player, he’s the future for Chelsea, for sure,” said Conte.

“He’s very young I saw him only one week during the pre-season in America, there we decided to send him to play every game, to get experience, and then come back with us.

“Abraham has a great potential. I think the academy is working very well.

“Next season, I think now it’s important to look to the present.”