Chelsea manager Antonio Conte has admitted Saturday's Premier League clash with Manchester City will be a huge test of his side'stitle hopes for this season.
Having lost to title rivals Arsenal and Liverpool earlier in the season, Conte has revived the Blues' fortunes with a formation change, with the club now on a seven game winning streaking in the league, conceding just once during that span.
Speaking tothe Expressahead of his side's next game, Conte has admitted the match with Pep Guardiola's City will be tough.
It's a big test because Man City are a fantastic team, but Saturday was a good test for us,� Conte said.
Now we are a different team to two months ago. It would have been very difficult to win the Tottenham game if we were the same team as two months ago.
I love the mentality of my players, I saw a great attitude and great commitment from all of them. I see the will to change something from the past, now it's important to continue.�
Chelsea's recent run had been under threat on Saturday when Christian Eriksen opened the scoring for Spurs during the derby, but goals from Pedro and Victor Moses ensured victory for the Stamford Bridge club, and Conte praised the fans after the win.
On Saturday our fans were very important," Conte continued.
They pushed us and supported us a lot during the game. We knew the importance of the game for our fans.
It was a special game, we haven't lost it for over 25 years, I know this, and Tottenham were unbeaten. After this game I can say they deserved to arrive before it unbeaten, they've shown they are a great team.
It's important for our fans to live the game with great intensity and passion because they can transfer this to the players. Stamford Bridge is perfect if we are able to create the right atmosphere, it's really important for us.�