Pochettino on Europe, progress and summer plans
- Published
Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino has been speaking to the media before the Blues host Bournemouth on the final day of the Premier League season on Sunday (16:00 BST kick-off).
The Blues have been on an excellent run of form, winning their past four and can secure European football with another victory over the Cherries.
Here are the key lines from his news conference:
On finishing in the top six: "It's really important to finish in the way that we are doing now. It is really important for team, for the players, for the club to be close to achieving one of our objectives - to play in Europe next season."
More on Europe and Bournemouth: "It's going to be a really tough game because Bournemouth are doing so well. Andoni Iraola is doing a good job but the most important [thing for us] is to finish well and see if we have the chance to get the place [in Europe]."
On Todd Boehly talking about patience: "It's always important to have the backing of the owners - it's best for the club, the players and the fans. We know very well that coaches are judged on results, and in a very short period. I think it is important to feel the backing of them."
What needs to be done over the summer: "That is something to speak to the sporting director [about]. Football is a very dynamic sport and things can change. We are working on the strategy for the summer and pre season to arrive in the best condition for the season."
On how the campaign has unfolded: "If you ask me if I'm happy with the way the team has evolved, yes yes [I am so happy]. In the past 26-27 games, we are in the top four - but it's still not enough. We want to evolve and improve. But I am so proud [with all the circumstances]."
On Reece James and his ban after being sent off in the win at Nottingham Forest: "We need to help him to move on and to accept the punishment. The most important thing is that we back him, we trust in him. He needs to be ready for pre-season to start to train to build his fitness. The challenge is there. He will be back next season, for sure, as one of the best players in the Premier League."
Thiago Silva will play his final game for the club on Sunday: "We are going to miss him. Always when a big character leaves the club we are going to miss them."
On clubs voting to scrap VAR: “I am not involved in this process. I like VAR. The way we need to improve is how we use VAR - that is the key. We need to be open and to welcome the new technology. I think it's good for football."
Follow all of Friday's Premier League news conferences and the rest of the day's football news
