Antonio Conte has dismissed rumors that Andrea Pirlo could join him with Chelsea in a coaching capacity.

Earlier this week former Chelsea assistant Ray Wilkins claimed that Conte had identified Pirlo as his chosen replacement for assistant first team coach Steve Holland.

"This is very strange, because Andrea Pirlo is playing and wants to continue to play," said Conte. "I don't know why someone would want to put this type of situation [out there] for me.

"But it's normal, this [speculation]. It's better for me to focus on the present, for me and my players. The present is more important than the future for all. I prefer to be focused on the present and try to finish this season, making this season a great season and not only a good season."