Antonio Conte was thankful to the Chelsea fans following their 2-1 win over West Ham United on Monday night.

The Italian oversaw his first Premier League game in charge of the Blues and was treated to a victory thanks to a fine late goal from Diego Costa, after Hammers defender James Collins had equalised following Eden Hazard's 47th-minute penalty.

When asked about how he saw his first game in top flight English football, Conte admitted it was a nice surprise while making sure to express his gratitude to the Stamford Bridge faithful.

"I only knew the league through television and having played against English teams in the Champions League and Europa League, but it is very difficult," he told Sky Sports.

"The atmosphere was fantastic and I want to say thank you to the fans because they followed the players at the end.

"There was great intensity and it was also very physical. I am delighted with the performance."