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Chelsea boss Antonio Conte: I couldn't have imagined this happening… but I have trust
ANTONIO CONTE admits he couldn’t have predicted Chelsea’s stunning winning run - but not due to a lack of faith in his players.
Sunderland v Chelsea - Premier League Match Preview
The Blues have been victorious in their last nine Premier League matches, conceding just twice in that time.
Adapting expertly to their 3-4-3 system, Chelsea have flourished and risen to the top of the table.
A 10th successive victory at Sunderland tonight (7.45pm) will extend their gap in first place to six points.
And Antonio Conte has been left in some shock at how successful the past two months have gone.
Antonio Conte's kept a very consistent first XI for Chelsea over their successful period
I know this league, and this league is very tough
“If I am honest, no, no [I couldn't have imagined it],” Conte said.
“Not because I don't trust in my team. But I know this league, and this league is very tough.
“In this case, we've won nine games in a row. I hope to continue that run. We all know that it's not easy to continue to win, but we are working to try and do this.
Chelsea defender Cesar Azpilicueta signed a new contract yesterday at Stamford Bridge
Antonio Conte's Chelsea defence kept another clean sheet on Sunday against West Brom
"I don't like to think about records or the other situations. It's important for me, every win, because you can take three points and increase your position in the table.”
After the trip to the Stadium of Light, Chelsea have a relatively comfortable line of fixtures coming up.
Before the New Year, the Blues face Crystal Palace, Bournemouth and Stoke.
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