Chelsea boss Antonio Conte is happy with the fixture scheduling, after it emerged his side would face Hull at home before the crucial Champions League tie against Barcelona.

Managers are usually quick to complain about fixture congestion and conspiracies against their club. It is a change of pace to hear Conte say something positive about the fixture list. He was speaking about the matter with reporters before his side's upcoming game against Bournemouth.

"It's before the game against Barcelona, Hull," Conte said.

"As you know very well, you can speak about a good draw after the game when you've won and you are through into the next round. Otherwise, this cup is very difficult.

"Every game is very tough. We have to pay great attention also in this game because we want to continue our run in this competition. For sure, this is positive. I must be honest, it's an advantage to play at home.

"You saw in the past that, in the first game against Norwich, we struggled a lot and went through at home. To play at home before the Barcelona game is positive, but positive because we have a great opportunity to go through to the next round with only one game."