Mikel Obi reveals Conte’s role in new deal for Terry

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte has demanded an overhaul of the current squad, according to a report in The Times.

After a disappointing campaign a year ago in which they made the worst-ever defence of a Premier League title and eventually finished 10th, the club appointed Antonio Conte this past summer.

Roman Abramovich provided a strong show of support for Antonio Conte on Monday by having lunch with the Chelsea manager at the club’s training ground.

Despite his modest start at Stamford Bridge, Conte retains the support of Abramovich, who has developed a reputation for being one of the most trigger-happy club owners in world football. Yes, but I prefer to keep my words, because it’s right when I talk with my players, to keep what I tell them, ‘ Conte said.

Conte, though, should not be spared entirely from blame.

Greater question marks hang over the likes of Marcos Alonso and David Luiz, who signed for the Blues on deadline day.

Failure to bring in proper defensive reinforcements over the summer is already hurting Chelsea, and now it is simply a waiting game for Zouma and Terry to return to fitness and for the January transfer window to open. In the last three games in the league there have been nine points available and we have got one. Without him against Arsenal and Liverpool, the side looked devoid of leadership. United responded to Mourinho’s decision to leave Rooney on the bench on Saturday with their best performance of the season in the 4-1 win over champions Leicester.

Juventus’ Leonardo Bonucci is thought to be top of Conte’s list after managing him both in Turin and for the Italian national team, while he also chased Kalidou Koulibaly of Napoli.

The Chelsea winger blasts his side’s defending for conceding early goals. The 29-year-old is impressed how his captain can still be such a force in the Chelsea back line.

Chelsea go to Hull this weekend and face champions Leicester and Manchester United immediately after the worldwide break. The task on Conte’s hands has now become apparent.