Chelsea boss Antonio Conte: This is the real reason I was in the crowd to watch Man City Chelsea predicted team to face West Ham

So much so, that he went to watch Manchester City's 5-3 Champions League thriller against Monaco last month.

Chelsea have been without any European __football this season following their disappointing campaign under Jose Mourinho and Guus Hiddink last term.

But the Blues are well on course to be competing with Europe's elite next year as they currently sit top of the table, seven points clear of Tottenham.

Antonio Conte was in the stands to watch Man City v Monaco

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Sat, March 4, 2017

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Who could Antonio Conte start against West Ham?

I watched Manchester City against Monaco because I wanted to breathe the atmosphere again and to feel this type of game

Antonio Conte

And Antonio Conte has revealed he was at the Etihad to help remind himself of what could be on the cards for Chelsea regarding Champions League competition.

"I watched Manchester City against Monaco because I wanted to breathe the atmosphere again and to feel this type of game," Conte said.

"For me and my players, I think the Champions League must be an appointment for us every year. 

Leroy Sane was on target in Manchester City's 5-3 win over Monaco

Antonio Conte's Chelsea sit seven points clear of Tottenham

"The Champions League must be our home and for this reason we are putting all our strength into playing in it next season. 

"It's a great competition for every single player, club and manager. We want to stay there and try to fight to win it."

Chelsea will look to extend their lead over Tottenham to 10 points when they take on West Ham tonight (8pm).