DO NOT GET UPSET Conte warning to his players

That is why he has warned his team not to falter against Peterborough today despite leaving striker Diego Costa on the bench.

In 1997, Conte was nearly caught in a big cup upset in his native Italy before his late goal earned all-conquering Juventus a replay against lowly Brescello, even though they won the replay 4-0.

Conte went on t o collect a staggering 16 trophies with Juve, 13 as player, but that game is still etched in his memory.

He will use the tale to remind Chelsea players today there is no such thing as a cup gimme.

Conte believes Division One Peterborough will present the same threat as Brescello.

He said: “I was on the verge of a cup upset. We played a small team in the same category as Peterborough. They were so small I can only just remember their name, Brescello.

“We drew 1-1 and I scored late. We won the replay but it was tough.

“This type of game is always very TONY STENSON difficult – particularly if you don’t arrive with the right focus.

“Also we know this is an important game for them. So we are preparing in the same way as we do for games in the league, the same way we p r e p a r e d a g a i n s t Tottenham.

“It’s important to have the right mentality because in England an easy game doesn’t exist, above all in the FA Cup.”

Conte is relishing the prospect of his first FA Cup tie

He added: “I can’t wait. The FA Cup is important because it’s the oldest competition in the world.

“It’s important to respect tradition and the FA Cup is a good tradition. You can’t compare it with the cup we have in Italy.

“It’s also good to give the chance to young players or players who aren’t playing regularly.”