Chelsea manager Antonio Conte hailed the character of Alvaro Morata to overcome his long scoring drought in the FA Cup quarter-final success against Leicester City.
Spain striker Morata broke the deadlock with a well-taken finish in the 42nd minute as last season s beaten finalists prevailed 2-1 in extra time.
It was his first goal of any kind in 2018, marking a successful return to the starting XI having been overlooked for the last three matches.
The 25-year-old went close to a second on a couple of occasions and won praise for his all-round display.
For Alvaro it was important to score but I am pleased for his performance, Conte told reporters.
He showed great character and to be strong. I think his goal will be very important for the future.
13 Alvaro Morata has scored his first goal for Chelsea since December 2017 (v Brighton), ending a run of 13 games in all competitions without one. Required.
— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe)
Chelsea, who were beaten by Arsenal in the 2017 decider, were favourably drawn with Premier League strugglers Southampton in the semi-finals.
However, Conte rejected the idea of being in an enviable position.
I think when you arrive at this point in the tournament it is easy to consider it easy, but Manchester City lost to Wigan, he said.
I think that we must be ready to fight to reach the final and it will be very important for us. Southampton has the same idea.
Last season it was a pity to lose the final and not celebrate the double. Our target is to do our best. If we can reach the final I want to change the result.
