McTominay has struggled to reach the heights of last season's campaign where he led Napoli to the Scudetto and was also named Serie A Player of the Year.
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Asked about the Scotland midfielder's form, Conte insisted: "It's very simple. His status has changed.
"He was the best player in the league last season. When he came, he was not used much in Manchester United. He came in like an underdog and had something to prove.
"Now his status is different and the attention he gets, even from opponents preparing to meet him, is completely different. He is now seen in a new light. It's that simple."