No Willian? Antonio Conte explains Chelseas starting XI vs Manchester United

Antonio Conte has explained his team selection for Chelseas FA Cup final clash with Manchester United.

The Italian has made a number of changes to his Chelsea team which lost 3-0 away at Newcastle last weekend, but Willian remains on the bench for the Blues at Wembley.

Conte has decided to name the same starting XI which defeated Liverpool 1-0 at Stamford Bridge earlier this month and he is confident his players can get a result against Jose Mourinhos men.

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Asked about his team selection at Wembley, Conte told BBC Sport: We have worked very hard to prepare for this game and for sure the final result in the last game was not positive, but we have to play in a better way if we want to win the final.

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This is the same team we played against Liverpool two weeks ago and I think it is the best formation for us today.

Conte defended Chelseas season but stressed that his side are desperate for a result at Wembley following their disappointment in the final last year.

Do you think this is a disappointing season? I dont think so, he snapped back at BBC Sports Gabby Logan.

I have worked with these players very hard. I dont think this is a disappointing season.

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This is our second final in a row to play this important competition which is a great achievement.

Now we have to change the result from last season.

Willian hinted at a rift between him and Conte in the lead-up to the FA Cup final.

Asked how happy he is with Conte, Willian told ESPN Brasil: Oh boy! Do you really want me to tell you?

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Both Willian and the interviewer laughed, before he added: Well, some other… lets save it for one next interview.

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