Willian clarifies his position under Antonio Conte

Chelsea attacker Willian has admitted that it was 'difficult' spending time on the bench last term but he respects the decisions of manager Antonio Conte.

The 29-year-old enjoyed his best ever season with the Blues last term as he contributed 13 goals and 12 assists but he was surprisingly left out of the starting lineup for the FA Cup final win over Manchester United.

Willian has since hinted of a rift with Conte after blocking the Italian out of a picture of the FA Cup celebrations posted on Instagram but he has now stressed that he has no issues with the head coach.

"I was happy with my performance during the season, I played very well I always try to do my best and work hard," Willian is quoted as saying by ESPN. 

"Sometimes to stay on the bench is difficult but I respect the decision of the manager. I don't have anything else to say about my club because now I want to have focus here on the national team and the World Cup."

Willian is currently with the Brazilian national team, who are preparing for the summer World Cup in Russia and his Blues future may only be resolved following the global tournament.

Of late, Manchester United have been touted to pursue a potential deal for the former Shakhtar man but Chelsea may be reluctant to do business after losing Nemanja Matic to their arch-rivals last summer.