Conte expecting ‘desperate’ clash between Chelsea and Middlesbrough

His side may have taken a step closer to the Premier League title without even playing a match after Spurs’ loss to West Ham on Friday night, but Antonio Conte still believes his side’s clash with Middlesbrough on Monday will be a match of desperation.

Chelsea now need just six points from their remaining four league games to clinch the title in Conte’s debut season at Stamford Bridge.

But with Boro fighting for their lives at the foot of the table and buoyed by last week’s draw with Manchester City, the Italian is expecting a feisty encounter.

“There are two teams with desperation to find the result because Middlesbrough have to win if they want to continue to hope to play in the Premier League next season and for us it’s the same, we have to win,” he said.

Photo credit should read LINDSEY PARNABY/AFP/Getty Images

“Pressure at this stage of the season is normal and you must cope with it, it’s normal at a great club when you are fighting for the title and to reach the best targets.

“Every single player, and the coach, has good experience to face this moment.”

“Our plan is to continue to work really hard and prepare for our final games, and the FA Cup final against Arsenal.

“It’s important we don’t make mistakes because it’s very difficult to recover, but we are ready to fight and ready to play these four games.”