Conte on Vidal, Rodriguez, Spurs, Costa, Alonso and more
Chelsea boss Antonio Conte was asked about a number of issues at his press conference ahead of his side’s game against Tottenham. Here is some of what the Italian had to say.
Conte on his hopes for the transfer window
“For sure there are some positions where, if we are able to find the right solution, it’s important to take that right solution.
“But also I know the market is difficult. Finding the right player won’t be easy, but we are talking about it.”
“I answer always in the same way. I don’t like to speak about players that are now playing with other teams. This is respect for players and also for the clubs.”
On reports Chelsea want Ricardo Rodriguez and Arturo Vidal
“I answer always in the same way. I don’t like to speak about players that are now playing with other teams. This is respect for players and also for the clubs.”
On Marcos Alonso, who picked up a knock
“He is available for tomorrow’s game and we do not have any injuries.”
On his many attacking options
“I like to have these type of problems. I like to have my players in good form and then to make the best choice for the game.
“We have Pedro, Willian, Hazard and Costa and they are in good form – good shape.
“I have to decide the starting 11 but I think you win the game in 95 minutes and it’s important to have all the players available and everyone playing well.”
On facing Tottenham
“To win 13 games in a row in this league is not easy – it’s very difficult. We are pleased about this and tomorrow we know we have a really tough game against Tottenham, which is a very strong team.
“For this reason it’s very important to pay great attention and to try to continue our run. For sure it will be very tough. For me Tottenham are better than last season.”
On Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino suggesting that neutrals want his team to beat Chelsea
“I think every team wants to stop our run, not only Tottenham. But it you see the table you will see that we are only five points clear. The league is open and we are only just in the second half of the season.”
On visiting White Hart Lane
“I never played there. I watched a Europa League game against Fiorentina. The atmosphere was very good.”
On Diego Costa admitting he wanted to leave in the summer
“Diego told me: ‘I stay and I want to fight for this club – I want to fight for my team-mates and for this shirt’. I wasn’t concerned.
“He has been showing great passion in the right way and we are happy about this – the club and his team-mates. He is focused on his game and that’s very important.”
On adapting to life in England
“When you change country and it’s new habits and a new language, you have to bring your philosophy. It’s not easy. It’s important to take time to work with your players.
“If you think that you want to change everything, then you make a mistake. It’s important to concentrate on the most important things and then to try to change something and bring your methods.”
On the future of John Mikel Obi
“For now we haven’t any news.”
