Starsport revealed on Tuesday that Conte is already coming under pressure, with billionaire owner Roman Abramovich furious at Chelsea’s performance in the 2-1 defeat to Liverpool.
But speaking ahead of today’s derby showdown at Arsenal, Conte insisted Chelsea will come good under his leadership.
“I think this team can improve a lot,” he said. “It’s normal that, when you start work in a new team, and you bring a new idea or method of football, you need a bit of time.”
Conte maintains his work on the training ground is laying the foundations for a bright future.
He said: “When there’s good work behind you, and you can see that every day in training, I’m sure if I’m a director then I know a coach or manager is doing very well.
“If we don’t win tomorrow or in the next game, I’m sure we will in the future. But if I’m a director and I don’t see that basis of work, you can win a game but not be sure it will go on.
“I’m doing my work and continue to do my work in the same way, as I did in the past and am doing in the present. And I will in the future. When you trust your work, you’re never afraid.”
Conte pointed out that Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has stayed in his job for 20 years despite fans’ frustrations with their recent title drought. And the Italian admitted he would like to be in it for the long haul in west London.
“It’s normal that, when every single year you fight for the title, you want to win,” he said. “But to stay up there every year is not easy. For this reason, I think Wenger is doing a good job.
“Now my dream is to continue for Chelsea, to continue my job, to continue to get to know the players, the fans, with this atmosphere because it’s fantastic.”
John Terry has not recovered from an ankle injury in time to face Arsenal but Cesc Fabregas’ two goals against Leicester in the EFL Cup in midweek could be enough to earn a starting spot against his former side.
“It’s a special game for him,” Conte said. “I’m seeing him very focused, very concentrated, during the training sessions.
“I’m pleased with his attitude, with his commitment in the last game. When I called him to come on in the (Liverpool) game, too. I want to see this in all my players.”
