Conte pleased by Chelsea character
Chelsea manager Antonio Conte has heaped praise on his side after they eased to a 4-0 win over Qarabag in the Champions League on Wednesday.
With the victory, Chelsea secured their place in the last 16 of Europe's elite competition, something that was put in doubt after their 3-0 loss to Roma last time out.
However, Conte has been impressed by the way his men have responded to that defeat.
"This group is showing great character," the Blues boss said.
"From the start we faced a lot of problems this season. Our answer was positive, almost always positive. For sure, the second half against Roma was bad.
"These players show me every day great commitment, great will, desire to fight.
"We are a really good squad. There is a great compactness between us. I think it will be very important for the present and the future."
Conte and his staff now have to worry about a 2,500-mile journey back to England, where Chelsea will face Liverpool at the weekend.
He added: "We have to work during the flight, to prepare the game against Liverpool.
"To have only one day to rest and only one day to prepare [for] this big game is not simple, is not easy. I think also it's not right.
"I don't want to make excuses, but this is the reality. Also, when people hear the complaints of the coach, also someone has to help us. The press, the TV, to underline this strange situation."