Michael Ballack makes big claim about Antonio Conte's replacement

Former Chelsea midfielder Michael Ballack believes Thomas Tuchel will only consider the Blues job, if they are able to finish in the Champions League positions next term.

The west London giants won the Premier League title under Antonio Conte's guidance during the previous campaign, but the failure to replicate the performance has brought doubts over the future of Antonio Conte.

In a report covered by Metro, Ballack suggested that Tuchel is prepared to manage any club overseas including Chelsea, but their presence in the Champions League may be crucial.

He said: "One thing I am sure of is that Thomas Tuchel is ready and able to manage a top club. Whether is it Arsenal, [Paris St-Germain] or even at Chelsea.

"It does not matter. He is ready. Chelsea’s participation in the Champions League next season will have a big impact on Tuchel’s next role."

Chelsea are presently five points behind fourth-placed Tottenham Hotspur, but they can close the gap on their cross-town rivals when they host them at Stamford Bridge this weekend.

The Blues secured a 2-1 triumph over Spurs in the reverse fixture at the Wembley Stadium, and they have a good chance of a repeat based on the history between the clubs.

Chelsea have not succumbed to a home defeat to Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League era with their previous loss coming during the 1989/90 season.