MY STUPID BOYS
Conte disappointed that Chelsea have dropped so many big points in games they have dominated
ANTONIO CONTE admits Chelsea have dropped points “in a stupid way” this season, but says now is not the time for “regret”.
The Blues have hauled themselves back into the top-four race with four straight league wins at the same time as Liverpool and Tottenham have stumbled.
Had they not started 2018 with just three wins in 11 league games, Chelsea might already have bagged a Champions League spot.
Conte said: “There is a bit of disappointment because, this season, we dropped many points in a stupid way, especially after games we dominated and created many chances in.
“We must be disappointed for this, but now there is not time to feel regret. We have to play two games and then the FA Cup final. At the end, we will see our season.”
The Blues kick off against Huddersfield tonight two points behind Spurs – both sides have played 36 games – and three behind Liverpool, who have one match left.
Manager Conte said: “It is easier to be ahead of the other teams because you know the situation is in your hands.
“The only way to put a bit of pressure on is to get three points in every game and, in the last month, we did this.”
Conte is expected to leave Chelsea at the end of the campaign. But if he leads them to a topfour finish and wins the FA Cup, it might just give the Stamford Bridge board he has been at loggerheads with over transfers something to think about.
He said: “In our job, the final result is very important, especially at a great club like Chelsea.”
But he swerved talk of whether tonight would be his final home game in charge and added: “I am very focused on the present to do my job in the best way. I try to transfer my will to my players also because the fans deserve this.
“There are only two weeks and this season will finish and you will know if there is a different situation or if you see me again next season. “Now, my present is with Chelsea.”