Chelsea vs. Leicester City: Antonio Conte's Key Pre-Match Presser Comments

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte laughed off suggestions he could be fired from the club when he addressed the media on Friday.

Per the Sun's Lee Astley, betting on the Italian losing his job at Stamford Bridge was suspended on Thursday, leading to speculation he could be sacked.

Conte was unconcerned, however: "I’m trying to find who put the money! But it's very difficult to talk about this situation. I am focused about my work and to improve the team. I have a good relationship with the club. It was nothing. I take it with a smile."

The Blues endured a poor campaign last year, and back-to-back Premier League defeats to Liverpool and Arsenal in September showed how far they still need to come.

Conte is only looking forward, though, per Liam Twomey of ESPN FC:

Chelsea take on champions Leicester City at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, and the Italian also gave the latest team news, with John Terry back from injury, per Goal's Nizaar Kinsella:

If Terry does play, it seems it will be as part of a back three, according to Twomey:

"

Conte: "Tomorrow I have four central defenders [in the squad] and I have to take the decision for three. One must go on the bench" #cfc

— Liam Twomey (@liam_twomey) October 14, 2016"

Per Astley, Conte also opened up on what he wants to see from his defence against Leicester: "I love the players who show good spirit. Central defenders must be very aggressive and attack the striker and be fast to cover the space."

Meanwhile, Willian will not be playing after the death of his mother: "We knew the problem with his mum. It is very sad, but we are very close with him, and our prayers are with him and his family."

Diego Costa will be able to play, and Conte expects to see the Spain international's typically aggressive approach despite the possible consequences:

If the striker does pick up a suspension, the boss has faith in summer signing Michy Batshuayi to step up:

Lastly, Conte was highly complimentary of his Foxes counterpart and compatriot Claudio Ranieri:

"

I was happy but not only me, the Italian people, that Claudio won a fantastic title in the Premier League with Leicester. He had a great celebration in Italy. He is a great manager, it is always a pleasure for me to talk to him. After the Cup game we spoke. He’s a good man and overall a good manager.

"

The champions have endured an inconsistent start to their domestic campaign and have yet to string two positive results together.

Last season's defensive solidity has faded, so it seems unlikely they'll be able to keep the Blues out.

Chelsea have also struggled at the back, but if Terry does return, his presence and leadership will provide a healthy boost to their prospects.