Chelsea boss Antonio Conte admits his players have surprised him.

Conte isn't the only person who didn't expect the Blues to be in such a strong position so early in his tenure.

"At the start of the season, not one person forecast Chelsea to be at the top of the table, for many reasons – because the squad was the same as last season, because our market wasn't great – but we found the right balance between me, my players and the club, to try to change the opinion of the people and try to have a good season.

"Now we are two games from being halfway through the season, and for this reason we must have the right pressure. Me and these players in the past have had the habit of staying top of the table, but I prefer not to look at the table in this moment. It's not important. It's important to look at the table at the end of the season.

"Now it's important to continue taking three points to increase our tally. Then, when we finish our season, we will look at the table and see where you are."