Roma midfielder Radja Nainggolan has admitted that he never considered joining Chelsea during the summer despite well-documented interest from the current Premier League champions.
Antonio Conte has long been known to be a fan of the Belgium international and it is thought that the Italian coach made several attempts to land the Roma star before the most recent transfer window closed.
According to Nainggolan, who faces the Blues again in the Champions League on Tuesday night, Chelsea's pursuit would have always been in vain, given that he never gave any consideration to leaving the Italian club.
"Well I made my choice," Nainggolan told reporters ahead of the clubs' European clash. "I never hesitated or thought for a minute [about leaving], so it doesn't matter if it's Chelsea or anyone else.
"It's always nice to play against a top team, and like all professionals I know how to prepare for them. I'm ready to give my best and hope to play well."
Roma currently occupy second spot in Group C, having picked up five points from their opening three games.
Christopher Dodd
