London: Cesc Fabregas has promised Chelsea will be dogged in their ongoing pursuit of Manchester City despite admitting Pep Guardiola’s side appear on course for the Premier League title.

Chelsea moved to back to within 11 points of the league leaders after labouring to a 1-0 win over struggling Swansea City and will attempt to close the gap when they face Newcastle United at Stamford Bridge this weekend. Chelsea midfielder Fabregas admitted the nature of City’s triumph suggested they could be the team to succeed the west Londoners as champions.

“Obviously when you’re in the kind of form Manchester City are in, that whatever you do, you score one, two, three, four late winners, sometimes this shows you it could be your year,” said the Spain international.

“That you are so lucky in the final minutes. It happened to us when I first came to the club a few years ago and we were winning games at the end. That shows that it’s your year and everything is happening for you.”

Fabregas added: “But at the same time this is not happening in March, it is late November so it’s still early (in the season).

“Let’s see what happens. They are doing well but we have to keep an eye on the top and get closer and closer.”

Conte accepts FA charge

Chelsea coach Antonio Conte said Friday he intends to accept a FA charge of misconduct after he was sent off against Swansea City.

Agencies