Former Chelsea boss Antonio Conte has revealed the rationale behind switching from a 4-2-4 system to his famous 3-4-3 formation at Stamford Bridge.

The Italian introduced a three-man defence formation after suffering consecutive league defeats to Liverpool and Arsenal in 2016. He thereafter won the Premier League trophy that same season.

“I took inspiration from non-professional coaches rather than those who studied at Coverciano,” the Inter tactician said.

“At the beginning of my career, I used a 4-2-4 system. Then I switched to a three-man defence, it’s more offensive because you can attack with five players.

“When I moved to Chelsea I used a 4-2-4, but I had to change because Hazard, Willian and Pedro struggled to cope with defensive duties on the flanks. Again, I switched to a three-man defence. The idea must be adapted to the players. I see football as a scholar: reshaping ideas makes the difference between coaches.”

Many say Romelu Lukaku is unstoppable, but only if he has space in front of him. Does Conte agree?

“It’s too easy to say that. I wish Lukaku and Lautaro were given more space inside the box. I don’t think it’s a good thing for defenders. Lukaku is an atypical player, he is a speedy centre forward, he could play American Football.”