Antonio Conte to Chelsea: Fabio Capello says Italian is 'preparing' for Blues job

The 46-year-old Italy head coach has emerged as the favourite to eventually succeed Jose Mourinho at Stamford Bridge

Samuel Stevens
Monday 29 February 2016 14:02 GMT
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Antonio Conte and Fabio Capello during a previous public appearance
Antonio Conte and Fabio Capello during a previous public appearance (Getty)

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Antonio Conte is preparing to take over at Chelsea in the summer, according to former England manager Fabio Capello.

The 46-year-old Italy head coach has emerged as the favourite to eventually succeed Jose Mourinho at Stamford Bridge with Guus Hiddink currently in charge on an interim basis.

The Blues are undefeated in the Premier League since the Dutchman took over but are 2-1 down in their two-legged Champions League round-of-16 tie with Paris Saint-Germain. Conte has refused to address the speculation linking him with a move to England despite having to prepare his squad for the European Championship this summer.

Capello, speaking to FOX Sports, appeared to reveal that the former Juventus boss is readying himself for the rigours of the Premier League. “Conte is preparing for Chelsea,” said the Italian. “He has the time to arrive and train Chelsea in the best way, as this is an important club.

“I think the most important thing will be the team he is able to put on the field. He needs defenders and there aren’t that many around.

“His communication with the players will also be fundamental. I myself had a difficult experience in Russia where I always had to speak through a translator.”

Hiddink, meanwhile, believes the club would be well advised to appoint a new manager quickly ahead of the 2016/17 campaign. When asked on his thoughts, he said: “I am in favour. You've heard more than I because that's your job, you have to search around where the rumours are. That's not my job. I'm just there to prepare for the next game.

“I'm not involved in this so that's all you can get from me on this issue. Of course this club is searching now and experienced managers they like and there are a lot. It's up to them, to make up their mind and make the decisions.”

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