World Cup

Willian: 'I have respect for Antonio Conte'

By Matt Law, Football Editor | 06 June 2018

Chelsea attacker Willian says that while he found it "difficult" spending time on the bench last season, he 'respects' the decisions of Blues boss Antonio Conte.

Chelsea attacker Willian has said that while he found it "difficult" spending time on the bench last season, he 'respects' the decisions of Blues boss Antonio Conte.

The 29-year-old scored 13 times and registered 12 assists for Chelsea during the 2017-18 campaign, but he was left out of the starting XI against Manchester United in the FA Cup final amid suggestions of a rift with Conte.

Willian raised further questions over his future at Chelsea when he blocked Conte out of a picture from the club's FA Cup celebrations.

The attacker has since been linked with a move to Man United, but he is currently fully focused on representing Brazil at the 2018 World Cup.

"I was happy with my performance during the season, I played very well I always try to do my best and work hard," Willian told reporters.

"Sometimes to stay on the bench is difficult but I respect the decision of the manager. I don't have anything else to say about my club because now I want to have focus here on the national team and the World Cup."

Brazil will open their 2018 World Cup with a Group E match against Switzerland on June 17.