FOOTBALL: CONTE WIN AWARD THREE MONTH IN A ROW

Conte makes history as Barclays Manager of the Month

Chelsea head coach first to win award three months in a row, after six successive victories

Antonio Conte has become the first person to receive the Barclays Manager of the Month award for a third month in succession after helping Chelsea to six successive wins in December.

Conte’s side equalled the Premier League record of 13 consecutive victories in a single season with maximum points throughout the month.

Chelsea opened the month with a come-from-behind victory at Manchester City, before winning 1-0 against West Bromwich Albion, Sunderland and Crystal Palace.

Then, Conte’s men were 3-0 winners over AFC Bournemouth and claimed a 4-2 triumph against Stoke City.

“This award shows we’re working very well,” Conte. “December was a great month for us. It was important for the table and for our confidence.”

The Italian was picked from a shortlist that featured Liverpool's Jurgen Klopp, Manchester United's Jose Mourinho and Mauricio Pochettino, of Tottenham Hotspur.

The winner was decided by a combination of votes from a panel of experts and the public.