Antonio Conte: 'Chelsea players have a top mentality'

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte has defended his players, saying that they have had a "top" mentality this season.

The Blues, who drew 1-1 with Barcelona in the Champions League on Wednesday, are in the hunt for a top-four spot in the Premier League.

Conte admitted that his side were right to be questioned after their 4-1 defeat to Watford, but insisted that aside from that fixture, his players are fully focused on achieving their aims this term.

"We missed only one game mentality-wise, against Watford," the Italian told reporters. "From the start of the season in every game our mentality was top, was top. Under this aspect, I must be very pleased because I have a group of players who work very well.

"There is always great commitment and great behaviours. But I've said this many times. I'm very happy to be the coach of these players. I'm very pleased, 100%, to work with these players. A winning mentality, it doesn't mean you have to win every game.

"A winning mentality is about the way you prepare the game, your commitment during training sessions, always at 100% and to have good behaviour with your coach, team-mates, fans, the opponents This is a winning mentality."

Chelsea can move level on points with Manchester United with victory over Jose Mourinho's men on Sunday.