Chelsea manager Antonio Conte has moaned about the crippling fixture schedule English clubs have to contend with adding that it is a major reason why there has been little or no success in the UEFA Champions League (UCL) in recent times.

The Stamford Bridge outfit were the last English club to reach the UCL final during the 2011/12 season. They went on to win the competition.

He further called on the schedulers to try and change something about the schedule.

Conte and his Chelsea team face a long trip back from Azerbaijan ahead of their crucial league clash with Liverpool at Anffield on Saturday evening as they bid to stay in touch with leaders Manchester City, who are 9 points ahead.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference ahead of the Qarabag game, Conte said: “Whoever prepares the fixtures must try to change something.”

“I think this is the best way for English football.” he added.

Conte further said: “For a lot of time, there isn’t an English team playing a final in the Champions League. Why is this?

“The teams are very strong and every team has the possibility to go through to the Champions League final.

“I don’t like to find excuses or alibis, but this is the reality. Sometimes I think it’s right to give respect for our job.” he concluded.

On his own part, Qarabag boss Gurban Gurbanov wants to see full committment from his players despite the fact that the return of two points from four games has seen them exit the competition with UEFA Europa League ((UEL) now their best bet if they can finish in 3rd place

He said: “We understand everything. We know the strength of our rival.”

“We will try to fight on the field till the end. This is our last match in Baku.” he added.