Antonio Conte admits he’s worried to Chelsea FC fans

Chelsea FC manager Antonio Conte Photo: Screengrab

Antonio Conte has admitted his concern about Chelsea FC’s ability to finish in the top four this season after their defeat by Bournemouth on Tuesday night.

The west London side lost 3-0 to Eddie Howe’s men in front of their home fans at Stamford Bridge to leave them fourth in the Premier League table and just two points ahead of fifth-placed Tottenham.

Chelsea FC have struggled to find consistent form in the top flight in recent weeks, with the Blues having only won two of their last five Premier League games.

A top four finish will be the minimum requirement for Conte’s side this season after he successfully led them to the Premier League title last term.

And Conte has admitted that his side will have to step their game up between now and the end of the season if they want to secure Champions League qualification for next term.

Speaking at his post-match news conference on Wednesday night, Conte said: “We must be worried because it won’t be easy, but this is normal.

“It won’t be easy for this season. We have to fight, we must be prepared to fight.

“I’m ready and I think the players are starting to understand that this season we have to struggle for a place in the Champions League.”

The west London side will take on FC Barcelona in the last 16 of the Champions League later this month.

Chelsea FC, who reached the FA Cup final last term, have won the Premier League title in two of the last three seasons.

MORE: Latest Chelsea news and views

MORE: Football transfer rumours and gossip