Tuesday 26 December 2017 19:00, UK
Antonio Conte was full of praise of the understanding between Cesar Azpilicueta and Alvaro Morata after the pair shone again.
Chelsea won their sixth Premier League game in a row at Stamford Bridge, edging past Brighton 2-0 on Boxing Day.
The combination of Azpilicueta and Morata linked up for the sixth time this season as the defender whipped a sensational ball from deep for the striker to nod home his 12th goal of the season to open the scoring.
"Azpi has to score also, not only assist," Conte joked.
"Azpi is a defender with good feet and there is this great link between him and Alvaro, it's not the first time, I hope they continue in this way.
"Morata has to pay for not just one dinner but more for Azpi, if they invite me I want to go with them."
The result was Chelsea's sixth Premier League win a row and keeps them in third, but they are still 13 points behind runaway league leaders Manchester City.
Conte isn't ready to give up hope of challenging but admits City will have to fail in spectacular fashion.
"I think in this league there is great motivation for all to try to stay there and fight until the end," he added.
"I don't know if we can do this for the title because it depends on Man City who are doing something extraordinary. To win every game and draw one means you are having a fantastic run.
"There is great motivation to find a place in the Champions League next year, there are four places for six top teams. Our start wasn't easy for many reasons but we want to work and improve. There are many competitions and we must be very proud to play every game."
