Watford vs. Chelsea: Antonio Conte's Key Pre-Match Press Conference Quotes

Chelsea head coach Antonio Conte was coy when quizzed on the club’s transfer policy during his weekly press conference, insisting they are biding their time when it comes to possible incomings. He also touched upon comparisons between himself and forward Diego Costa.

The Blues triumphed in Conte’s first Premier League game in charge, with a late winner from the striker securing a 2-1 win over West Ham United on Monday night.

Addressing the media ahead of his side’s trip to Watford on Saturday, the Italian insisted Chelsea are still looking for ways to improve the side, per the club’s official Twitter feed:

Chelsea have landed Michy Batshuayi and N’Golo Kante this summer, although the squad does look short in some areas. According to Jason Burt of the Daily Telegraph, the Blues are also ready to bid £60 million in an attempt to secure Napoli centre-back Kalidou Koulibaly.

Conte also spoke about Juan Cuadrado, who was loaned out to Juventus last season by his predecessor Jose Mourinho, although the Italian didn’t seem totally convinced that the Colombian winger has a long-term future at Stamford Bridge:

The team Conte did send out on Monday against the Hammers played well, even though Costa did salvage the points for the Blues late on.

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His goal prompted wild celebrations from those inside Stamford Bridge, including Conte himself, who bounced down the touchline and embraced a supporter.

The exuberant actions on the touchline have become a trademark of his management style, and the former Juventus chief was unashamed in admitting his passion for the game:

Conte was also asked whether he sees similarities between himself and firebrand forward Costa, who frequently irks opponents with some of his antics.

The former Italy midfielder was also an edgy player on the field, per ESPN FC's Liam Twomey:

It’s an appetite for the game that Conte will hope to see rub off on his players, who were a long way short of their best in the previous season.

Already there seems to be a better atmosphere among the players, something that would have been enriched further by the manner of their performance on Monday.

With that in mind, despite finishing in 10th position last season, the manager feels Chelsea should be aiming for the stars:

Turning to the challenge to come from the Hornets, the Blues manager commented on the threat they’ll pose:

He also spoke about his relationship with Watford boss Walter Mazzarri, which, according to Twomey, is not the best. Conte insisted the two have made their peace despite some previous cross words during their time managing in Serie A:

Finally, in a boost for those travelling north to Vicarage Road, Conte confirmed that there have been no knocks since the West Ham fixture:

It’ll be intriguing to see what Conte makes of his first Premier League away day. Watford may not be the strongest side in the division, although games on the road always present unique challenges. The Italian certainly won’t be as welcome bounding down the touchline should the Blues net in this one.

Still, his side were excellent on Monday and should be emboldened by the late winner they scored. Conte will be desperate to continue his perfect start to life at Stamford Bridge and keep the feel-good factor that’s engulfed the club intact.