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Gianfranco Zola: This is the best thing about Chelsea manager Antonio Conte
ANTONIO CONTE’s ability to change Chelsea’s system so quickly after coming in as manager has been his greatest achievement so far, believes Blues legend Gianfranco Zola.
Milner attempts to recreate Zola's 2002 goal
Antonio Conte was appointed Chelsea manager after leading Italy to the quarter-finals of Euro 2016.
The 47-year-old was allowed to spend big on new players in the summer but his breakthrough came with a system change to 3-4-3.
Chelsea have won their last 11 league games and conceded just two goals over that period.
And Zola credits that run down to Conte’s tactics.
“I’ve been very impressed because I didn’t expect him to achieve what he has so early, but I know Antonio, I know his qualities as a coach and I had no doubt he was going to do a good job,” Zola told Chelsea’s website.
“What is good is that he’s been able to get into the system so quickly.
“I hope they continue with the way they’re going because the challenges this season are big, both for him as a coach and Chelsea as a team, so I hope they can keep that consistency and continuity until the end of the season.”
Chelsea legend Gianfranco Zola (right) has been impressed by Antonio Conte
Chelsea manager Antonio Conte has led the Blues to the top of the league
Zola remains at legend at Chelsea
What is good is that he’s been able to get into the system so quickly
Zola himself is back in management after being appointed as Birmingham manager earlier this month.
The former Chelsea forward, who has previously managed Watford and West Ham, is tasked with hauling Birmingham back into the Premier League.
The club started a new era under Zola with a 2-1 home defeat over Brighton on Saturday.
They travel to Derby on Boxing Day, while host Bournemouth at Stamford Bridge.
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