Chelsea character key to season’s success, says boss Conte

Runaway leaders Chelsea have attracted widespread praise for their ruthless efficiency in establishing themselves at the top of the Premier League.

And boss Antonio Conte has been quick to praise the character of his Blues players, who have bounced back from a surprise defeat to Crystal Palace with wins over Manchester City and Bournemouth.

Chelsea have a seven-point cushion at the top of the league, despite nearest challengers Tottenham Hotspur winning six games on the spin.

Conte’s side take on Manchester United on Sunday, while Spurs host Bournemouth at White Hart Lane on Saturday afternoon.

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And the Italian believes his side’s resolve is one of their major plus points in a campaign to remember so far.

“We have shown great character all season and great desire and will to fight for the title,” said Conte.

“We started this season and nobody thought Chelsea could fight for the title. Instead, we found the right motivation together.

“Probably we can find the same situation this week, because Tottenham play at home against Bournemouth, but in England easy games don’t exist.

“We have to think game by game and we know our schedule is not easy, but we want to play game by game and we will now prepare in the right way for United.

“I think we are having a good season, but we want it to become a great season.”