Antonio Conte admits David Luiz's return to Chelsea was a 'last-minute' decision... but says he can become one of the best defenders in the world

LUIZ

Antonio Conte has admitted it was a ‘last-minute’ call to re-sign David Luiz on deadline day, but believes he can become one of the best defenders in the world.

Chelsea pulled off the shock £32million move on the final day of the transfer window despite reservations about the defensive side of the 29-year-old’s game.

The switch has seen the Brazilian reunite with the squad he left for Paris Saint-Germain two years ago and head coach Conte confirmed on Friday that it was a late decision to bring in the defender.

He said: ‘when we take the decision about players, we always take the decision together: me and the club. 

'This transfer market was very difficult for us to reach our targets, but at the last minute, on the last day, there was this situation which was good for me and the club to improve the squad.

‘For this reason, we bought David Luiz. We invested in David and I'm very happy. We took a player with a great personality, good technique, he likes to play. I like to play football and I like defenders who like to play football. 

'I think every player can improve. David Luiz is 29, it's a fantastic age for him to become one of the best defenders in the world.'

Despite rating Luiz’s ability with the ball, Conte admitted he would need to improve his defensive play. Luiz was famously labelled a ‘Play station’ footballer by Gary Neville during his first spell in the Premier League and Conte will persist with fielding him in defence, rather than midfield, where the Brazilian has previously been used.

Conte, whose side face Swansea on Sunday, said: ‘We know David can improve in defensive situations, but it's good and I'm very happy he stays here. He's a good guy, a positive guy for the changing room.’

He added: ‘I think a great defender must be able to play football. But I also think the coach must improve these players. I think that's the most important thing for me, not only to win, lose or draw.

‘David Luiz wants to play for Chelsea and this is a great opportunity for him and for us to improve.’