Chelsea fans and Rafa Benitez didn’t get on well during his time as Liverpool manager, as the Blues and Liverpool had a very heated rivalry during that time.

His war of words with then boss Jose Mourinho didn’t help his course, and his appointment as Chelsea manager wasn’t appreciated by Chelsea fans.

With Benitez bringing his Newcastle charges to Stamford Bridge today, Conte in his press conference on Friday urged the fans to show respect to the Newcastle boss.

He said: “Rafa in his spell at Chelsea did well, to win the EL is not simple. I remember when Chelsea won the EL. It’s right always to give respect.

“Also, it was because for a long time he was the coach of Liverpool, it was only for this. Our fans are great in these circumstances.”