Conte expects ‘tactical’ cup final

Chelsea boss Antonio Conte has suggested the FA Cup final against Manchester United on Saturday will be a cautious match.

United’s former Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has been widely criticised for being negative this season while the Blues have often been more effective playing on the counter attack and making the most of the pace of Eden Hazard, Willian and Pedro.

Conte, who leads his side to Wembley for the second successive FA Cup final, said: “When you play a final the most important thing is to win.

“It will be a tactical game. I don’t what type of game we will see but it will be very tough for both teams.”

Conte’s tactics have been difficult to predict, with big decisions to be made in all areas.

Thibaut Courtois is likely to start in goal ahead of Wily Caballero, but Andreas Christensen, Gary Cahill and Antonio Rudiger are all vying for two of the three central defensive positions alongside Cesar Azpilicueta.

In midfield, Cesc Fabregas and Tiemoue Bakayoko are competing to start alongside N’Golo Kante, although Fabregas could be deployed in a more attacking role.

The formation will then dictate whether Willian makes the starting line-up alongside Eden Hazard, with Olivier Giroud and Alvaro Morata vying to start up front.

Conte said the prestige of the Wembley final adds to the importance of the fixture.

“The FA Cup is a really important competition – the oldest in the world,” Conte added. “My players will be focused for sure.

“To finish the season and to play for an important trophy for the second time in a row is a great achievement.”