Antonio Conte : No Bad Blood With Ex-Liverpool Coach Benitez

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte has cleared the air on his relationship with former Liverpool coach Rafael Benítez ahead of his side's Premier League clash against Newcastle United at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, December 2.

The Spaniard handled Chelsea on an interim basis for a portion of the 2012-2013 season following the dismissal of Roberto Di Matteo.

''No, this is not true. Rafa did a great job in his time with Napoli. Then I remember when I was the coach of the national team I went to watch the training session with Napoli and stay with him,'' Conte said at Friday's press conference attended by Football.London.

''He is a good manager and has won a lot with his career. I have a great respect for him.''

Conte has called on Chelsea fans to show respect to Rafael Benítez when he returns to Stamford Bridge.

''I think Rafa in his spell he did well. To win the Europa League is not simple. When Chelsea won it, it is right always to give respect.

''Also if for a long time the coach was the coach of the opponent you think this. He was the coach for many years of Liverpool. I think only for this. I think our fans are very good for this. ''

Igho Kingsley

Photo Credit : chelseafc.com