Chelsea manager Antonio Conte has called for public backing from the Stamford Bridge hierarchy to put an end to growing speculation about his future as manager. The Italian won the Premier League title in 2016-17 in his first year in England but there have been persistent rumours about his job being under threat this season due to the Blues’ indifferent form. Conte has repeatedly expressed his desire to honour the remaining 18 months of his contract and now wants a public vote of confidence from his employers. “Maybe I’d like that the club prepare a statement for me to tell (the media), ‘I trust in his job, I trust in his work’,” said Conte ahead of Monday’s trip to Watford. Conte said he would welcome talks about extending his contract with the London club despite his struggles this season.

Source: Punch February 05, 2018 10:18 UTC