Morata: Only Conte Believed In Me  (Sky Sports)

Alvaro Morata says he opted to join Chelsea because Antonio Conte was the only coach who believed in him.

Manchester United were reportedly close to signing Morata in the summer, with Jose Mourinho having worked with the striker during their time at Real Madrid.

Morata instead signed for Conte at Chelsea - scoring six Premier League goals in as many games - and has admitted he is relishing the opportunity of becoming the Blues' first-choice forward under the Italian.

"I came to Chelsea because one club and one coach believed in me. Now I have all of these things and I'm very happy," Morata said.

"Was it a big move for me to become the first-choice striker? It's the most important thing."

Morata scored 20 goals in 43 games at Real Madrid last season, but the striker failed to make a lasting impression at the Spanish giants.

But after swapping La Liga for the Premier League, Morata has now labelled the English top flight as the "the most competitive league in the world".

"Yes, it's physical. And it's the league with the most teams who can win the title," said Morata.

"There are strong teams, but we're very happy because we're fighting for the Premier League too."

Chelsea host Premier League leaders Manchester City on Saturday, and Morata is urging his team-mates to go into the international break with a victory under their belts.

He said: "It's another big match, another big Premier League match. It's very important for us before the international break to take the three points."