Pressure on FA to reform
Pull the other one, Pep
ANTONIO CONTE has hit back at Pep Guardiola’s claim the title is “Chelsea’s to lose” by belittling his comments as a “mental strategy” to put pressure on Chelsea.
Chelsea are 10 points clear of Manchester City but, ahead of today’s home game against Arsenal, Conte was dismissive of how serious the City manager’s concession is given that earlier this season the difference in points was eight in the other direction. “It’s normal, a mental strategy that every single coach tries to use for his players and also to try to put a bit of pressure on others,” said Conte. “But I remember we were eight points from City.
“To answer Pep: the situation can change very quickly. After 18 games, the situation has changed. There are 15 games left and we must pay great attention. If someone thinks the league is finished, I’m not so sure.” THE FA face a motion of no confidence in the House of Commons on Thursday.
An open letter from five former chairmen and chief executives of the FA, including Greg Dyke, right, has demanded help from the government over reform.
The association risks losing £50million of public funding if changes are not made. AITOR KARANKA has ordered winger Adama Traore to be within earshot of the dugout in every match.
At half-time, Middlesbrough boss Karanka tells Traore, right, to switch flanks so he can hear his manager’s instructions.
The former Barcelona youngster is a huge talent with explosive pace and