Chelsea ‘keeping the hope alive’ – Conte

Antonio Conte praised his players after a 1-0 victory over Liverpool boosted Chelsea’s hopes of snatching a Champions League spot.

Conte’s side kept Liverpool’s attack quiet and secured all three points courtesy of Olivier Giroud’s first-half-header.

“We must be pleased because the players played a really good game,” Blues boss Conte said.

“It was a must-win game but not with a simple opponent. It was against Liverpool – a team that has just reached the final of the Champions League.

“They are very dangerous and it’s impressive the way they attack.”

The victory moved Chelsea to within two points of fourth-placed Tottenham and three of third-placed Liverpool.

Conte’s side have also played a game less than Liverpool, although the Reds have a vastly superior goal difference.

“I saw great desire and a great will to fight and keep the hope alive to take a place in the Champions League. I don’t know if this will be enough but we have to try,” said Conte.

“One month ago it was impossible to imagine we could reach the Champions League but now there is hope because we are winning and our opponents are dropping points, but our future is not in our hands.”