Antonio Conte was is a relaxed but focused mood after his charges beat Everton 2-0 at Stamford Bridge this afternoon emphasiing that, despite speculation to the contrary he is totally committed to Chelsea.
Goals from Spanish duo Cesc Fabregas and Alvaro Morata sealed the champions’ first victory of the new season at home.
The opening day 3-2 defeat at home to Burnley firmly confined to the past.
Conte would not speculate on the future of striker Diego Costa after Everton boss Ronald Koeman suggested that his side was in need of a frontman..
“ I don’t talk about players. I repeat, I do not know about the transfer market,” was his response to the suggestion that a move to Merseyside with the Toffeemen might be a good option for the player and both clubs.
On the match itself, Conte was on firmer ground.
Of his striker Morata, Conte conceded that the player signed from Real Madrid has yet to shine.
Conte said: “I took off Morata because he was a bit tired. There's is no injury.
“It takes time for a player to adjust to our system. He, like Bakayoko and Rudiger are the same.”
Chelsea's Alvaro Morata scores the second goal through the hands of Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford
When asked about other goal scorer Fabregas, Conte suggested that there is more to come.
"Cesc is trying now to improve his defensive position," he said. "We all know his quality. He needs sometime to be like N'Golo. But also N'Golo has to work to be like Cesc with the ball.”
Of the potential to bring in new players before the transfer window closes on Thursday, Conte said: "There are four days to go in the transfer market. I think the club is working very hard to try to improve our squad."
But he would not be drawn on speculation that he might resign if he does not get the players he wants.
“The club knows the situation,” he said. “In September, we play seven games and I will need to rotate the players. I cannot play with the same players.”
And as if to clarify his influence on transfer policy, Conte reiterated his position in the club’s hierarchy.
"I am a coach, not a manager,” he emphasised.
“When you want to strengthen your squad you have to give your opinion, and speak with your club."
Of the possibility of resigning, he said: "My message for the fans is always the same I am totally committed to the club. I am totally committed to improving my team."