Antonio
Conte insists he remains committed to Chelsea - but has reminded the club he
is a "serial winner" who will not change.
Conte's Chelsea finished a fractious campaign on a high note as Eden
Hazard's first-half penalty at Wembley saw them beat Manchester United 1-0
to win the FA Cup.
Speculation has been rife that this would be Conte's final game in charge at
Stamford Bridge, whatever the result, and while celebrating the triumph, the
Italian took the opportunity to remind the Chelsea hierarchy of his
achievements in a "difficult" season.
"This season was very difficult for many reasons," Conte said. "I predicted
difficulties at the start of the season but we finished fifth and we won the
FA Cup.
"To miss a place in the Champions League is not good for a club like
Chelsea. We must be honest to say this but, at the same time, I think you
have to know the real situation - that this group of players did their best.
"To finish this season and win an important trophy like this shows great
commitment and desire to finish the season in the right way despite the
difficulties.
"Even in a difficult season, I showed I am a serial winner."
Conte was pressed further on his future but he stressed his commitment to
the club has been unwavering
"I have a contract and I have committed to this club," he said. "Even with
the speculation, my position was always the same - I was committed.
"I understand that the club can make a decision - positive or negative. It's
right that the club demands a lot.
"But after two years, the club knows me very well. If they want to continue
to work with me, they know me - I can't change.
"My way is always the same: hard work and to build a strong mentality with
my players. My past speaks clearly as a player and manager. I'm a serial
winner and I showed this in England after a difficult moment for the club.
"The decision to appoint me... in two seasons I brought two trophies to this
club."
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