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Conte warns players not to lose sight of runaway Manchester City

CHELSEA manager Antonio Conte has called on his players not to lose sight of runaway leaders Manchester City or risk missing out on a top four finish.

Chelsea welcome Stoke City today, looking to build upon their recent steady performances.

Goals from Alvaro Morata and Marcos Alonso saw off Brighton on Boxing Day in a dominant performance from the reigning champions.

They are now on a six-game winning streak at Stamford Bridge and, given a strong record against Mark Hughes’s side, this should be a comfortable match for Chelsea to end the year.

However, with Pep Guardiola’s men running away with the title it seems, the Chelsea boss was remaining upbeat about their prospects this season.

“In this league to finish in the top four is always a success,” said Conte. “This is the only league with six top teams fighting for the title every season.

“There are only four places for the Champions League and two for the Europa League, so you have to fight.

“When your competitor is doing so well, like Man City, it’s difficult to fight for the title until the end, but we must give everything, try to get three points in every game and improve our work.”

One of Chelsea’s problems this season has been the issue of a small squad compared to their rivals.

The Italian, however, remain tight-lipped about the possibility of additions when the transfer window opens next week.

“I think this window could be important if we are able to find the right players, otherwise we continue to work with these players and I’m very happy to work with them,” said Conte.

“For sure, the club will try to do their best in the market to improve the squad from a numerical aspect. I’m a coach, I have to work with my players and my task is on the pitch.

“The transfer market is for the club and they must decide if they want to improve my squad.”
 

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