Antonio Conte fires stern warning at Chelsea FC stars after Southampton win

Chelsea FC manager Antonio Conte Photo: Screengrab

Antonio Conte has challenged his players to up their game between now and the end of the season after Chelsea FC’s dramatic 3-2 win over Southampton on Saturday.

The Blues game from two goals down to claim all three points against the Saints thanks to two second-half goals from Olivier Giroud and one strike from Eden Hazard.

Chelsea FC still remain in fifth place in the Premier League table and seven points behind fourth-placed Tottenham, with their chances of qualifying for the Champions League next season looking very slim.

The west London club are preparing to return to FA Cup action this weekend and Conte’s men will take on Southampton in the semi-finals at Wembley on Sunday.

Conte was naturally pleased with the desire shown by his players on Saturday against the Saints and he now wants to see more of the same between now and the end of the campaign.

Speaking at his post-match news conference on Saturday, Conte said: “The players must play like this in every game, not for me, but for the club.

“They must have great respect for the fans. They have to play for the club, for our fans, and to show great character like they did in this game.

“This is the best possible way for a player to show they are a fantastic professional.”

Chelsea FC are currently in fifth place in the Premier League and looking as though they are going to miss out on a place in the Champions League for next season.

The Blues won the Premier League title in style in Conte’s first campaign at the club last season but they have struggled to produce consistent form this term.

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