Antonio Conte says he is surprised West Ham have struggled this season.
Conte’s Chelsea side, third in the Premier League table, face them at the London Stadium on Saturday.
The Hammers are one off the bottom, having endured a miserable campaign so far.
But Conte believes they have enough quality players to climb away from danger.
Asked if he is surprised they have performed so poorly, he said: “Yes. I must be honest, West Ham has a good squad, good players, and to see them in this position is a bit strange.”
The Blues boss added: “For sure they have the potential to do better. I hope not tomorrow, but after our game. They are a really good team with good players.”
Chelsea midfielder Danny Drinkwater has been ruled out of this weekend’s derby because of illness.
Meanwhile, Conte has refused to comment on speculation over the future of Chelsea defender David Luiz.
This post was last modified on 08/12/2017