Nevin happy Batshuayi can cover for in-form Costa

Former midfielder Pat Nevin is confident that Michy Batshuayi has the ability to cover the absence of the in-form Diego Costa at Chelsea.

Costa has already scored 13 goals for the Premier League leaders this season, more than anyone else in the league, but is suspended for Chelsea’ Boxing Day fixture against Bournemouth.

Batshuayi, 23, is the most likely man to step into the breach on Monday having been bought from Marseille for a fee thought to be around £33m.

The Belgian international has had limited opportunities at Chelsea so far but Nevin is confident a full match to show his ability will be the perfect chance for the young striker.

(Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images)

“Who will start up front for Chelsea against this new central partnership will be a topic of feverish discussion this week, with Michy Batshuayi the clear favourite to get the nod.

“He certainly needs a chance to play in our first team at match pace for 90 minutes, to show everyone why we spent the money on him and why we believe in his talent.

“Having watched him for a season or two before he arrived, I am an unashamed fan of the Belgian but it is so hard to break in ahead of Diego and it is difficult sometimes not to try too hard when you get a fleeting opportunity.

“Batshuayi can and will be a class act in the end, but the temptation is always to compare him with Diego and that is tough.”