Conte faces misconduct charge

CHELSEA manager Antonio Conte was last night charged with misconduct by the Football Association following his dismissal against Swansea on Wednesday.

However, the Italian could still be in the dugout when his side host Newcastle United at Stamford Bridge tomorrow.

The Italian was sent to the stands by referee Neil Swarbrick towards the end of the first half of Chelsea’s 1-0 win over Swansea after furiously protesting the award of a goal-kick.

Conte later apologised to Swarbrick and fourth official Lee Mason but has been charged.

He has until 6pm on Tuesday to respond but, given his apology, Conte is unlikely to contest the charge and will accept the punishment, which is anticipated to be a fine.

Meanwhile, Cesc Fabregas believes the manager’s squad rotation will only benefit Chelsea.

Cesar Azpilicueta was rested in the Premier League for the first time under Conte for the match against Swansea, ending a run of 74 successive league starts since December 2015, while Eden Hazard was relegated to the substitutes’ bench.

With nine games remaining in all competitions this calendar year, Conte is expected to keep altering his line-up, something Fabregas welcomed.

“We have to cope with the situation. No one can play every three days even if we want to,” Fabregas said. “If you keep playing, you will keep carrying knocks so it is good to have a break sometimes and come back fresher.

“To know that the team is performing and winning without Eden really being involved is very good.

“We started the season without him and he didn’t start against Swansea because he is the best player (and needed a rest).

“Beating Swansea has kept the momentum going. In this period of the year it is just important to keep getting the three points.” Chelsea manager Antonio Conte