Chelsea boss Antonio Conte revealed that he would like the club’s fans to match the passion he displays on the touchline this season.
The former Juventus manager stirred the fans on several occasions during Chelsea’s 2-1 success over Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday, as the supporters descended into an anxious silence at times.
Conte has undoubtedly re-installed a greater sense of pride and belief among Chelsea’s following, partly through implementing immense stability within his side, while those inside Stamford Bridge have responded to his drive by ramping up the atmosphere when called upon. But he wants the fans to do so on their own accord.
The Italian said (via the Mirror): “The fans were very important, they pushed a lot behind us and supported a lot during the game. It is important our crowd live the game with intensity and passion, because they can transfer this to the players. Stamford Bridge is perfect if we are able to create the right atmosphere.
“We knew the importance of this game to our fans – a special game and we haven’t lost it for 25 years – and also don’t forget, Tottenham were unbeaten. This was the first defeat for them. They deserved to come here unbeaten, because they showed they are a great team.”
The fact that Conte has made scant changes to the team that’s won seven straight Premier League games over the last few months spells danger for the rest of the title challengers, as very few sides have managed to exploit the 3-4-3 system consistently throughout a match.
The Blues conceded their first goal in the league since they were beaten 3-0 by Arsenal when Christian Eriksen opened the scoring on Saturday, but they responded in a manner that suggests they’re equipped to deal with any big challenges that come their way.
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