Conte sets title target to shake dogged Spurs

LONDON — Chelsea needs six victories — 18 more points — to win the Premier League title, manager Antonio Conte told his players after Wednesday’s 2-1 win over Manchester City at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea’s lead was cut to seven points after it lost 2-1 at home to Crystal Palace last weekend, but it preserved its advantage over Tottenham Hotspur by seeing off City.

Spurs will end the season with 89 points if they win their last eight games and Conte said his side must win six of its remaining matches — which would take it to 90 points — to be sure of the title.

“I like to say only the winner writes history,” he said.

“I have intelligent players. When there is the possibility to send some message, I think these players don’t need this message.

“They know very well the situation. The only message I send them is that we must think Tottenham could win eight games.

“For this reason, we must be focused and try to win six games. If we can do this, we will win the title. Otherwise, it will be a good season, but not a great season.”

Tottenham came from behind to win 3-1 at Swansea City, so Chelsea’s lead would

City remains fourth, 14 points below Chelsea, and with Arsenal and Manchester United hot on its heels — both four points behind with a game in hand — Guardiola knows his side faces a scrap for a top-four finish.

“Today the Premier League has gone,” Guardiola said.

“We have to think about the