Antonio Conte has called on the Napoli fans to help the team rise to the challenge of facing reigning Club World Cup champions Chelsea in Wednesday's crunch Champions League clash at the Stadio Maradona.
“We're up against the current world champions but we'll give it our all," he explained at the pre-match media conference on Tuesday. "The Maradona faithful will get behind us and can help us get through the emergency.
“We're down to the bare bones at the moment, with the same players playing the last three matches.The treatment room is still full and we won't get anyone back for this one. Nonetheless we'll give it our best shot because we're determined to overcome all obstacles.
“Chelsea are a club I know very well. Having been there, I understand their mentality, the investment and the ambition they always have. The fact they're the reigning club champions says a lot.
“We must think positive and try to be optimistic in facing this tricky spell. Unfortunately the absences are affecting us but we have to be ready even if we're running into a headwind. We're not afraid and we're not looking for excuses. We'll keep pushing on with our heads held high.
“We have some top players and the players who will go out there tomorrow believe in what they're doing and they'll give their all. I have a magnificent group of lads whose commitment is always exemplary, even in the most difficult situations. We're proud of our club and tomorrow we'll do everything we can to make our fans proud.”
