Chelsea's Conte laughs off exit reports

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte saw the lighter side of reports from bookmakers suggesting he was on the verge of getting sacked, after several gambling companies suspended betting on him getting fired.

Conte joked with reporters, saying, "I'm trying to find who put the money on!"

The Italian manager, however, added that he preferred to avoid the topic to prevent any distractions ahead of Chelsea's clash with Leicester City on Saturday.

"It's very difficult to talk about this situation because I am focused on my work to improve the team. I have a good relationship with the team so I take this with a smile," he said.

On Thursday, Chelsea reportedly attempted to defuse the situation by confirming to Sky Sports that there was no truth to the reports, and that Conte's job is safe.

In any case, his dismissal at this stage of the season would have sent shockwaves through the league, considering he was only hired three months ago, and Chelsea has registered five points more this year compared to the struggling 2015-16 edition after seven matches.

Conte added that captain John Terry will be in the squad for Saturday's match, and confirmed that Willian will be unavailable for selection following the death of his mother.