Antonio Conte revealed he feels relaxed for the first time this season after seeing his Chelsea side move to within three points of the Premier League title on Monday night.
The Blues’ 3-0 victory over Middlesbrough at Stamford Bridge, coupled with Tottenham’s shock loss away to West Ham on Friday, means Chelsea can wrap up the title if they beat West Brom away on Friday night.
Following Chelsea’s comfortable win over Boro, who were in turn condemned to relegation from the top flight, Conte admitted to feeling less nervous about his side’s charge for the title but urged his players to maintain their focus and finish the job at the Hawthorns.
“For sure now I’m a bit relaxed,” Conte said on Monday night.
“This was big step and a big win for us.
“Now we have to do another step and we have the chance to do this against West Brom.
“They are really physical but we took a big step.
“We must be honest because it wasn’t easy.
“I’m pleased for the performance, commitment and desire my players showed me. I’m satisfied.”
When then asked whether he would allow his players to ease up on their diet before Friday, Conte laughed and said: “My message for now is that we must take another step.
“It’s right to look at ourselves and not look at the results of other teams.
“We must finish off this league. But we have three chances to become champions.
“Now there is the pressure but it’s a good one. It must bring us excitement because the target is very close and we must have enthusiasm.
“My players deserve to win the league.”
COMMENTS