Michy Batshuayi: Eden Hazard played a part in Chelsea stay

Chelsea striker Michy Batshuayi has revealed that compatriot Eden Hazard played a role in convincing him to remain at Stamford Bridge.

The Belgium international played second fiddle to Diego Costa during their title-winning campaign last term, making just a solitary start in the Premier League.

Antonio Conte recruited Alvaro Morata from Real Madrid to replace Costa in the summer but the lack of a third marksman convinced Batshuayi to stay put in west London.

Speaking to Belgian outlet Dhnet.be, Batshuayi admitted he received some advice from Hazard, who felt there would be another striker signing.

He said: "It was friendly advice. When he said that, he thought a third striker was going to come, but in the end, there's only two of us for one place.

"I want to succeed at this club and my relationship with Alvaro is very healthy. I don't want to leave during the next transfer window, because we're going to play a lot of games and I will certainly get an opportunity." 

Batshuayi started the initial part of the campaign as the first-choice striker but Morata has since taken over with his impressive showing in the Premier League.

Conte has not favoured playing Batshuayi up front on most occasions, but he could get an opportunity against Crystal Palace next week with Morata having sustained a hamstring injury.