Antonio Conte has told Chelsea's players he will be present for the first day of preseason training on Monday.

The Blues manager is expected to be axed and replaced by former Napoli coach Maurizio Sarri.

However, The Times says Conte has emailed his players making it clear he will be in charge when they report back to the club next week.

The Italian has drawn up a complete preseason schedule for his squad and as far as he is concerned, it is business as usual.

Conte has spent the summer break in southern Italy, but will be in London for the weekend in readiness for Monday's first preseason session.