ANTONIO CONTE has told Chelsea fans to remember the part Jose Mourinho played in the club’s history.
Mourinho returns on Sunday with Manchester United for the first time since he was sacked last season after losing ten Premier League games with Chelsea.
Conte said: "I think that he was an important manager for Chelsea. With the club, with the players, he brought a part of the story. He won three championships. I think he was an important man for the club.
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“I think he deserves a good reception. I repeat: he brought, with the club and with the players and the staff, a part of the story of this club. When you've won three championships you remain in the hearts of the fans. It's normal, this.
“I think he deserves this. Then, after the whistle, he becomes like the other players of Manchester United. An enemy. But from a sporting aspect.
“Sure, I have great respect for him. Sure, he's a great manager. He won a lot in his career. I think that he deserves the maximum respect.”
The Italian boss has got off to a great start at Stamford Bridge and will be hoping to keep his winning streak going after seeing off Hull and Leicester.
Conte confirmed Willian and Oscar were available for selection again after returning from respective bereavements in Brazil, although they’re not guaranteed a place in the matchday squad.
There’s also good news regarding Kurt Zouma, with Conte expecting the crocked Frenchman to be back in full training next week.
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However, Cesc Fabregas and Branislav Ivanovic remains doubts for this weekend, with the duo yet to recover from minor muscle injuries.
But John Terry is ready and available after bouncing back from an ankle injury.
Reports early today claimed the captain had aggravated the problem for a second time and was set to miss out, but Conte insists he has every chance of facing Mourinho at the Bridge.
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