Antonio Conte gives his Chelsea flops THREE days off to recover from latest crisis

ANTONIO CONTE has given his shattered Chelsea players three days off to recharge their batteries and find a way out of their crisis.

Chelsea lost their second game in a row last night at Watford in an embarrassing 4-1 collapse – and have conceded seven goals in less than a week, putting their chances of a top four finish in real jeopardy.

Workaholic manager Conte – now under real pressure – has privately admitted that his squad has been overworking recently with games every three days, and has given them extra time off.

His players will now not report again until Friday to prepare for next Monday’s crucial match at home to Premier League strugglers West Bromwich.



Chelsea have been hit with a series of injuries to key players in recent weeks – with up to eight hamstring problems being suffered by Conte’s men.

Left back Marcos Alonso had to be rested from Monday’s game because as a precaution to avoid injury.

Defender Andreas Christensen missed the trip to Vicarage Road because of a hamstring strain, while goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois had only just returned from an ankle injury.

Conte  is hoping that by giving his players an extended rest they will get valuable time out to refresh themselves for the crucial run in to the season.

Chelsea play Barcelona on February 20 in the Champions League last 16 and are also in the fifth round of The FA Cup – as well as battling for a top four finish to secure Champions League football for next season.

Source:www.express.co.uk