Antonio Conte was happy with his squad players today (Picture: Getty)

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte praised the performance of youngster Nathan Ake as he was drafted in for today’s FA Cup semi-final victory over Tottenham.

The Blues won 4-2 at Wembley in a thrilling encounter between the Premier League’s top two, with Ake putting in an assured display in the side’s back three.

The 21-year-old has barely featured since being recalled from loan club Bournemouth in the middle of the season, but he showed why he is rated so highly at Stamford Bridge.

Nathan Ake shone in a rare start for Chelsea (Picture: Getty)

Conte also made the surprise decision to start Michy Batshuayi up front after benching both Diego Costa and Eden Hazard, and the Italian also had some positive words about the Belgian, who has also hardly played this season.

‘I’m pleased today because Michy started the game, an important game. Very important for him and his confidence and Ake, who is a young player from our academy,’ Conte said.

‘Nathan Ake is a player from our Academy and we must be very proud of him today.

Chelsea remaining fixtures

Sunderland (H) - Sun 21 May
Arsenal FA Cup (N) - Sat 27 May

‘It is important to see his level and commitment in this type of game. It’s not easy. I trust them and every single player and today I think I showed this.’

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