CONTE SET TO STAY AS CHELSEA GAFFER

CHELSEA feel a three-day break will help allow the players to return to training refreshed and ready to tackle the challenges ahead under manager Antonio Conte.

Italian Conte has found his position in the spotlight following two straight Premier League defeats including Monday’s 4-1 loss at Watford.

It’s understood there was no board meeting yesterday to discuss the manager’s future.

Former Barcelona boss Luis Enrique and Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone have both been linked with Conte’s job but it is understood there are currently no discussions with any other potential managerial candidates.

The Chelsea players have, though, been given three days off before returning on Friday in the build-up to the home match against West Brom on February 12.

Conte remained defiant when pressed on his future after the defeat at Vicarage Road, where the home side scored three late goals after E d e n H a z a r d ’s fine 81st-minute strike looked to have rescued a draw.

“I’m not worried about my job,” the Italian said, before signalling his intention to continue working to turn the team’s form around.

Conte arrived at Stamford Bridge during the summer of 2016 and led Chelsea to the Premier League title.

However, they are now some 19 points behind leaders Manchester City this season.