Chelsea
captain Gary Cahill has called for "the uncertainty to be put to bed" over
the future of head coach Antonio Conte.
Conte ensured his second season in charge at Stamford Bridge finished with a
trophy, following last season's Premier League triumph, after they defeated
Manchester United in the FA Cup final on Saturday.
The Italian has cut a frustrated figure on the touchline at times this term,
with Chelsea failing to secure Champions League football and Conte appearing
to criticise the club's transfer policy in public.
Asked what it would need for the Blues to move on and make the necessary
close-season preparations, Cahill said: "Probably for the uncertainty to be
put to bed and for whatever's going to happen to happen.
"It's out of our hands. We have to try to deliver on the pitch. We fell
short in some aspects this season but (on Saturday) we produced. The rest
behind the scenes is not down to us."
Conte, who described himself as a "serial winner" in his post-match press
conference on Saturday, has one year left of his three-year contract at
Stamford Bridge but his future has been the subject of speculation,
including in the aftermath of their Wembley win.
"Us, as players, we don't have any impact on that situation," Cahill added.
"I'm sure, if I was a guessing man, they obviously will have spoken, between
the club and the manager. And let's see.
"I'm sure the manager will make the best decision for himself and his
family. And I'm sure the club will make the best decision they feel.
"It's totally out of our hands. All I can say is it's been a great finish.
If the manager stays on next year, he stays on.
"If he doesn't, he's gone away with a Premier League and FA Cup. I think
that's something everyone at the club can be proud of."
top