Chelsea coach Antonio Conte has hinted that Liverpool’s exploits in the UEFA Champions League may hamper them when they visit Stamford Bridge on Sunday for a crucial Premier League clash.
“This could be a good opportunity,” Conte stated at his pre-match press conference as he continued, “but in the last three games, if we want to keep the hope alive we have to win, and as we know very well Liverpool are a good team. It won’t be easy but if we want to keep hope alive we must get three points.”
Liverpool edged Serie A side Roma 7-6 in the Champions League semi-finals as they progressed to the summit clash with Real Madrid despite losing the second leg of their semi 4-2 on Wednesday night even as Chelsea players trained all week.
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“I don’t know if this is the right moment to play against them, but for sure you expect a tough game against Liverpool and you must be ready to fight and to play against them. It is very important to play a good game, but we are ready to play against them,” the Italian added.
A rejuvenated Chelsea side have reignited the top-four race in the Premier League and the Blues trail the third-placed Reds by six points, having played a game less.
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“For sure Liverpool will want to finish this season in the best possible way. Also because they have only two (league) games to go. I don’t think the game in the Champions League will influence them,” the Blues coach added.
The Reds have been struggling with injuries of late, especially in midfield with Jordan Henderson, James Milner and Georginio Wijnaldum the only fit players at Jurgen Klopp’s disposal.
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The tie at Stamford Bridge kicks off on Sunday at 16.30 GMT/2100 IST.