Polite Pep KO’s Conte ‘bust-up’ reports

PEP GUARDIOLA insisted Manchester City are “polite” and Antonio Conte was adamant Chelsea are respectful as both played down reports of a tunnel bust-up following Wednesday’s encounter at Stamford Bridge.

Guardiola was caught up in the commotion immediately after Chesea’s 2-1 win over City, when numerous voices were raised after a frank exchange which did not turn physical.

The incident was not mentioned in referee Mike Dean’s report and there is not expected to be any FA disciplinary action relating to the matter.

Conte on Friday said: “Respect is always important. I think there is a winner and there is a loser. And both must accept the final result and show respect.”

Asked about the incident, Guardiola said: “Come on. We congratulate Chelsea for the victory. We are so polite in our defeats and polite when we win, especially that.”

Meanwhile, Guardiola feels City have made progress this season even though they will fall below expectations.

City’s hopes of winning the Premier League in Guardiola’s first season were already slim before their midweek loss at Chelsea left them 14 points behind the leaders.

They also underachieved in the Champions League, failing to get beyond the last 16, but Guardiola has been pleased with some aspects of the season.

The Spaniard said: “My feeling is during the season we made really good things.

“I was expecting from the beginning of the season to fight for the Premier League until the end. Okay we are a little bit disappointed, but I am happy with the way we made good things in this season. Of course we want to improve for next season.”

City remain in a battle for Champions League qualification places with Tottenham, Liverpool, Arsenal, Manchester United and Everton. They could also end the season with silverware if they win the FA Cup.