Playing in Europe has been a norm for Chelsea in more than two decades. Champions League football has become a tradition for the two-time holders.

The Blues must now swallow their pride and aim for a place in the Europa League, as a Champions League finish seems far-fetched at this point.

According to reports, manager Mauricio Pochettino is battling to save his job but the Blues manager insists he has reason to feel confident he has the backing of the club’s owners.

“Why not? I am confident,” Pochettino said.

“Until they decide to tell me something else. But at the moment, I don’t think they are going to tell me anything different.”

Winning the FA Cup would ensure Chelsea avoid the ignominy of a second successive season without silverware as well as ensure a return to Europe.

The FA Cup remains a very likely route for Chelsea to play in the Europa League next season, with some reports claiming that Pochettino’s job hangs on this.

On his job, Mauricio Pochettino denies he has been told his future depends on whether he qualifies for Europe.

He said: “From who? From the sporting directors and the owners? No. I don’t remember, I don’t.”