Chelsea boss Antonio Conte has insisted that his side must avoid talk of the Premier League title at such an early stage in the season, claiming that there is still 'a long way to go'.
The Blues recorded their fourth straight league win at the weekend having comfortably beaten Southampton 2-0 at St Mary's.
Goals from Eden Hazard and Diego Costa saw Chelsea move just one point behind the joint league-leaders after 10 games, setting up one of the closest title-races in recent years.
But Conte insists that league position is not important at this stage, saying it's impossible to make a prediction of what will happen by next May.
As quoted inthe Mirror, Conte said:At this moment, it's not important for us to look at the table. We are in a good position, but it's not important."
Full time: Southampton 0-2 Chelsea. Get in! #CFCLive #SOUCHE pic.twitter.com/pg7wVqEI8H
We know that the road is long. I have confidence because we can improve. We can improve a lot. Not look at the table.
But, if you ask me a prediction or an expectation of our championship, now it's very difficult to talk about this.
It's important to pass many games in the first part of this season. And then you can see if you can stay up there in the title race.
"We are not looking at the table, but continuing just to work. You can judge us in the second part of the season. During January.�
Conte congratulates each and every one of his players on a job very well done, and the away fans are in jubilant mood too! #CFC
Chelsea centre-back Gary Cahill echoed his manager's comments, telling reporters that it is 'too early' to talk about winning the league.
It's a pleasure to have these guys in the side. Four consecutive wins in the league now, four clean sheets “ we keep going." Cahill said.
It's too early in terms of any team talking about winning the league but its important to stay near the top. We want to be up and among it. I can't see anyone running away with it this season.�