Willian says he respects Antonio Conte's decision to leave him on bench for Chelsea

Willian admits he found it difficult not starting games for Chelsea, but says he respects the manager Antonio Conte.

The Brazil midfielder was voted the club's players' player of the season, however, he was left out of the starting line-up for last month's 1-0 FA Cup final win over Manchester United.

It was the fourth time in Chelsea's last five games that he had been on the bench.

Speaking at Tottenham's training ground, where Brazil are preparing for the World Cup, he said: "I was happy with my performance during the season, I played very well I always try to do my best and work hard."

"Sometimes to stay on the bench is difficult but I respect the decision of the manager. I think it was that I don't have nothing more to say about my club because now I want to have focus here on the national team and the World Cup."

In May, Sky Sports News reported that Willian wanted to leave Stamford Bridge if Conte remained as head coach.

Willian, who has two years remaining on his contract, was linked with a move to Manchester United, according to Sky Sources.

Conte's future remains in doubt, after failing to secure Champions League football for the next campaign following a fifth-place finish.

via Sky Sports