Conte content to call Chelsea his home
ANTONIO CONTE has suggested he would like to lead Chelsea into the new Stamford Bridge.
The 48-year-old led the Blues to the Premier League title in his first season in charge last term and signed improved terms to the initial three- year deal he agreed on taking up the job, but not an extension. His contract expires in June, 2019.
Conte insists he is committed to Chelsea, who have planning permission to rebuild Stamford Bridge but are yet to make a final decision whether to proceed.
If the Italian were to still be in charge it would defy Chelsea’ s managerial turnover, which predates Roman A bra mo vich’s 14- year ownership. Not since John Neal in 1981 to 1985 has a Blues boss enjoyed four calendar years in charge.
“I want to break this bad record. I must be positive,” Conte said.
“This could be a fantastic challenge for me and the club, to stay together and play with this team in a new stadium.
“Honestly, I love Stamford Bridge. I feel Stamford Bridge is like my house.”
If Chelsea do opt to rebuild they will probably need to temporarily relocate, with Wembley the most likely destination.
The national stadium is Tottenham’s temporary home this season and Spurs host the Blues in their first Premier League home game there this afternoon.
Tottenham were underwhelming at Wembley last season as they played their European ties there, losing to Monaco and Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League and only managing to draw with Gent in the Europa League.
“Obviously every game is important and every game means a lot to the players and the fans,” manager Mauricio Pochettino said.
“We have some history with Chelsea over the last couple of years and we’re going out there looking to win the game.”
While winning at Wembley has proved a challenge, Tottenham are unbeaten at home against Chelsea since 2012, chalking up a memorable 5- 3 win in 2015 before Dele Alli scored both goals in a 2-0 victory last season.
“Without doubt that game was among my highlights of my time at Spurs,” Alli said.
“It was a big match, they were on a good run and we wanted to put an end to that. To win 2- 0 and for me to score both goals was a great feeling.”
Kieran Trippier could return from injury to replace Kyle WalkerPeters at right- back in Pochettino’s side with Davinson Sanchez awaiting a work permit after his club-record deal was announced on Friday.