My philosophy is already working at Chelsea, says Conte

LONDON: There was no pre-match fanfare to present Antonio Conte to the Stamford Bridge crowd before his debut as Chelsea manager, but Monday’s 2-1 Premier League

LONDON: There was no pre-match fanfare to present Antonio Conte to the Stamford Bridge crowd before his debut as Chelsea manager, but Monday’s 2-1 Premier League win over West Ham United sent a clear message that the team are already marching to his orders.

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Conte’s side dominated their London rivals with the kind of drive that made his name as a player and as a coach in Italy, energy that was so lacking at Chelsea last season when the 2015 champions failed miserably to defend their title.

As the former Italy and Juventus manager watched the game from the sidelines, barking instructions and waving his arms, the home crowd sensed a renewed confidence among many of the players who performed so poorly a few months ago.

After being hugged by fans, Conte said he believed his approach was working well.

“Every manager, when (he) arrives in a new club, tries to bring his philosophy, his philosophy of football,” he told reporters. “We are working only one month with the players but I am pleased because tonight I saw the right intensity. It is important to bring something of different compared with last season.”

After struggling to match West Ham in the opening 15 minutes, Chelsea gradually tightened their grip on the game.

Eden Hazard got off the mark early in the second half by converting a penalty after defender Cesar Azpilicueta was fouled by Michail Antonio.

Chelsea dominated the second half with Hazard influential and new signing N’Golo Kante adding more bite in midfield.