Conte speaks about his Chelsea exit rumours

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte giving instructions in training [Photo: Reuters]

Chelsea head coach Antonio Conte hinted his long-term future remains at Stamford Bridge, despite persistent rumours that he could leave at the end of the season. The Italian signed a new contract with the Blues after guiding them to the Premier League title last season, but it did not extend the expiry date beyond 2019.

Reports of homesickness have raised doubts over the former Juventus and Italy coach's potential longevity at Chelsea, with club's hierarchy this week linked with a move for former boss Carlo Ancelotti if Conte opts to depart prematurely. Conte has dismissed Chelsea's hopes of catching runaway Premier League leaders Manchester City, in the midst of a 16-game winning run that has put them 11 points clear at the top. [AP]