Chelsea captain Cesar Azpilicueta has credited Antonio Conte for getting him into the best shape of his career.

Azpilicueta told The Athletic: “Antonio was someone who was very demanding in every training session.

“I remember his first pre-season — it was about sacrifice. But you could soon feel on the pitch that you were stronger.

“Was it the fittest I’ve felt? Yes, although that was also because I was playing every minute and felt that confidence in me from the beginning with him.

“It’s important for you to feel that in your mind. You push even more.”