CUP SECOND TO TOP FOUR

CHELSEA flyer Willian admits he would put a top-four finish ahead of winning the FA Cup.

Antonio Conte’s side are favourites to beat Southampton and reach the May showpiece, but are fifth in the Premier League, 10 points behind Spurs who occupy the final Champions League place.

Willian said: “I’d prefer to finish in the top four than win the FA Cup then you can play in the Champions League.”

The Brazilian winger, 29, insists he is no different to any other top player desperate to have his club playing at the elite level of club football.

Chelsea face Saints on Sunday week in the Cup semi-final but the former Anzhi Makhachkala wideman, scorer of 13 goals this season, added: “Of course I want to win every trophy.

“But if someone says to me: ‘Which one would you prefer? Top four, Champions League next season? Or FA Cup, no Champions League next season? Top four’.”

Chelsea’s draw at home to West Ham last Sunday means they are fifth in the Premier League table and face a semi-final rehearsal at Southampton on Saturday.

Conte’s men must win to keep their fading top-four hopes alive and then hope Spurs are beaten at home by Manchester City that evening.

Willian has won two Premier League titles and the League Cup with Chelsea. But he has never won the FA Cup.

He added: “Of course, everyone wants to win titles. The FA Cup is good to win. Of course. But I am one of those players that every year wants to play at a high level.”