Antonio Conte’s press conference to preview Chelsea’s trip to Burnley was interrupted by a phone call from his wife.
The Chelsea manager, whose future remains the subject of speculation amid their struggles to secure a top-four finish, has often cut a frustrated figure in front of the media this season due to the Blues’ lack of progress and at what he considers a lack of investment in his squad.
Unusually, when his phone then rang and he had to turn it off to prevent further interruption, a wide smile appeared across his face and he began to laugh.
“It was my wife,” the 48-year-old said. “Always in the worst moment. I’m sorry.
“You can give me a fine! I’m sorry, because I would be annoyed if it happened to one of you.”
Chelsea visit Burnley in the knowledge that victory will reduce the gap to fourth-placed Tottenham to five points.
On Sunday they face Southampton, who they overcame 3-2 last week in the Premier League, at Wembley in the semi-finals of the FA Cup.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here