Antonio Conte has challenged Chelsea to back him publicly.

There has been increasing tension between Conte and the club's hierarchy over recruitment and the intensity of his training.

“I must be honest, there were these type of rumours and speculation [that he might be sacked] even after the first game of the season when we lost against Burnley,” Conte said. “Maybe I’d like the club to prepare a statement for me, no? To say they trust me in my work and my job.

“But, at the same time, I know this never happened in the past, so why should I hope for something different? But, for sure, I’d like to have a statement of support against this speculation. The challenge is that, in the past, this never happened. So it’s a big challenge [for the board] to change the approach now. But, for sure, I’d be glad.”

Roman Abramovich has been reluctant to speak publicly though Chelsea did release a statement support for Jose Mourinho in October of 2015 before firing him in December.