Chelsea Must Fight In FA-Cup Semi-Final’- Antonio Conte

Manager Antonio Conte says Chelsea must “be ready to fight” in their FA Cup semi-final against Southampton.

The Blues, Premier League champions last season, face third-bottom Saints at 15:00 BST at Wembley on Sunday.

Conte, whose side beat Burnley 2-1 at Turf Moor in the league on Thursday, said he is not “listening to those who say Chelsea are already in the final”.

“It won’t be easy,” said Conte, who hinted that he may start with two strikers in the semi.

“Five days ago we were 2-0 down at Southampton, but I saw a fantastic spirit at Burnley. We must continue this way.”

Against Burnley, Conte played two strikers – Alvaro Morata and Olivier Giroud – for the first time since taking over at Chelsea in 2016.

“In the past it was very difficult for me to try this option with the two strikers,” he said.

“But they showed a great link and a great combination, and at the same time they worked very hard for the team.

“Our strikers created a lot of difficulties for the central defenders and we surprised Burnley.

“To see Giroud and Morata play this way gives me satisfaction. It’s an option, for Sunday or maybe for the future.”