Defensive changes key to Chelsea success - Conte

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte believes his players' ability to adapt to a new defensive system quickly was key to their Premier League success this season.

The Blues lifted the trophy after a 5-1 battering of Sunderland on Sunday, having wrapped up the title by beating West Brom earlier this month.

Chelsea's transformation in fortunes under Conte has, in part, been down to a shift from playing four at the back to a three-man defence.

And the Italian says the smooth transition to his tactical approach played an important role in their return to the pinnacle of English football following the disappointment of last season when they finished 10th.

"This change was very important for us because we found the right balance and every single player enjoyed this type of situation," he told Sky Sports. "This was a key moment.

"I have to be pleased because the players had never played with this system and it changed totally.

"To play three at the back is totally different to playing with four and it wasn't easy. But I found great men and great players."

Chelsea could yet add the FA Cup to their Premier League crown when they face Arsenal at Wembley next weekend, and Conte says his achievements in his first season at Stamford Bridge have been the stuff of dreams.

"I dreamt of this but if you asked me on my first day at Chelsea if I would reach the end of the season celebrating winning the league, and also to be in the final of the FA Cup, it was very difficult for me to imagine," he added.

"Now, through our work, we have achieved this and it's right to enjoy this moment with our fans.

"It's amazing for me, for the players and for the club. It's a great achievement for us after a very tough season. Don't forget this.

"But now it's right to enjoy this moment."