Conte brings more than just Italian gusto, says Cahill

Antonio Conte’s eccentric touchline antics may result in the addition of several new dugout cameras at Stamford Bridge, but defender Gary Cahill insists the dynamic Italian is bringing plenty more than theatrics to Chelsea.

The 47-year-old former Azzurri manager raced out of his dugout to celebrate with Blues fans on Monday evening after Diego Costa grabbed a dramatic late winner against bitter London rivals West Ham.

And while he may have endeared himself to the Chelsea faithful in their season-opening clash, Cahill is adamant he has impressed the squad since the beginning of pre-season.

The England defender admires Conte’s intensity from the dugout, and is confident their new manager has already added several strings to the Blues’ bow.

“He’s added spirit, he’s added organisation and a lot of discipline,” said the 30-year-old. “Players know exactly what their role should be at each individual time they’re on the pitch.

(Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)

“He’s added fitness; against West Ham I felt really sharp and really fit, it’s one of the toughest pre-seasons I’ve done.

“It’s not enjoyable when you’re doing it but you reap the rewards and I felt really strong in the game.

“He wants to win. You can see how animated he is on the side of the pitch and he’s like that when we’re working. He wants to win, just like the rest of us.

“Unfortunately [against West Ham] we conceded but we showed great character to come back and win the game, we got what we deserved. We can take a lot of confidence from the game.”