LONDON: Antonio Conte has refused to be drawn on his future as Chelsea’s boss ahead of today’s visit of West Ham to Stamford Bridge.
The Blues won the Premier League title at a canter last season in the Italian’s first campaign in charge. Twelve months on, however, and it is a different story. Chelsea lie in 5th spot a full EIGHT points behind fourth placed Tottenham.
That has led to repeated speculation that the Italian will either walk or be pushed come the end of the season. But Conte was quick to kick all talk of his future into row Z.
“It’s very difficult for me but since this season I’m listening to a lot of speculation about my future, but the only truth is I am committed for this club,” Conte said.
“I have a contract for this club, I’m working very hard for this club.
“This is the only truth. The other speculation is not true.”
Chelsea have managed just five wins out of 19 in all competitions since the turn of the year, sparking fresh rumors that Conte’s intense personality and demanding training style have lost him the support of several key players.
Their lackluster performance in Chelsea’s first home defeat to Tottenham for 28 years hardly erased that impression.
Chelsea have managed just five wins out of 19 in all competitions this year and have lost three of their past five Premier League games
“For sure we must be realistic. This defeat was a bad defeat for us. We had the opportunity to reduce the gap to Tottenham,” said Conte.
“We have to try to do everything to try to continue, to fight for a top-four place. It won’t be easy. We have to try to give all ourselves.
“We must show pride, desire, a will to fight until the end this season. This must be our target now.”
There have been widespread reports Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich is considering moves for ex-Barcelona boss Luis Enrique and Juventus chief Max Allegri. Added to that Gianluca Vialli, a former Chelsea manager and Juventus team-mate of Conte’s, claims his old friend cannot wait to leave the west London club after growing tired of his lack of influence on the squad’s make-up.
But Conte, when asked about Vialli’s comments, said: “It is not true. Gianluca is a friend but I’m not talking with him for one year, maybe.”
Meanwhile, West Ham are five points above the relegation zone following last weekend’s crucial win over Southampton. David Moyes’ side beat Chelsea earlier this season and the Hammers boss is eyeing a repeat.
“We haven’t got enough points to be safe yet,” he said.
“It was a really big win for us (against Chelsea), for the team, for the club, it gave us all a boost.
“I hope lightning can strike twice and we can do it again."
