Jose Mourinho has spoken of the "position of privilege'' enjoyed by Antonio Conte during his first season at Chelsea as the Manchester United manager prepares to face his table-topping former club in the FA Cup quarterfinals.
Last season went disastrously for the west Londoners, with the reigning champions' abysmal Premier League title defence costing Mourinho, the most successful manager in the club's history, his job at Stamford Bridge for the second time.
Chelsea technical director Michael Emenalo cited "palpable discord with the players'' -- many of whom have found their mojo again under summer appointment Conte.
The former Juventus and Italy manager's arrival has inspired the Blues to a fine campaign that sees them 10 points clear at the summit, although Mourinho has again highlighted how failing to qualify for Europe has aided their charge.