Antonio Conte Has Been Brilliantly Working On How Three-Man Defence Should Function

Antonio Conte has been speaking about the way in which a three-man defence should function and the type of qualities required for the players deployed across those positions.

Since switching to a back three away at Hull the Blues have flourished, winning three games in succession and improving with every performance.

Tonight we go in search of a fourth consecutive victory when we face West Ham United in the EFL Cup at the London Stadium, and while there may be some changes to the team which started the last three matches, Conte explained what he expects from the three central defenders.

‘The central defenders on the right and the left must be very fast and aggressive,’ said the Italian.

‘The players that play in the middle of the three defenders must be more tactical, must reflect more and find the right position, and also call the line up and down.

‘In these last three games we did very well. It’s normal when you play with the same players. They take confidence in the role to play together.

‘It’s important also for example in this game, the cup, to find a new solution. If you have during the season an injury, then it’s important to have a good solution ready.’

There will be over 5,000 Chelsea supporters cheering the Blues on in east London this evening, and Conte has praised the fans for their backing since he took charge, with one match in particular standing out in his memory.

‘I always appreciate a lot the behaviour of our fans when we play away,’ he added. ‘In every single moment they are behind us. I remember when we were losing 2-0 at Leicester after 20 minutes, they were pushing us a lot.

‘This is very important. I want them to stay behind us and to push the players, in every moment of the game, positive or negative, to win. Our fans, if they want, can be a 12th player.

‘One reason you want to work in England is for the atmosphere that you breathe during the game. It’s very special in this country.

‘At every game you can see families coming to watch the game. The first thing is to come and celebrate football, to stay together and to live a fantastic moment with your family.’