Maurizio Sarri has hinted that Chelsea could adopt defensive tactics against Manchester United on Sunday.
The game is crucial to both clubs’ top-four chances and a draw would suit Chelsea more than United as they are three points clear of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side.
And, speaking at a press conference on Friday, Blues manager Sarri said: “The match is clear; in this moment it is a very important match, probably more than important, for our target.
“We will try to win of course, but we need not to lose. It’s a very difficult match for both.”
United have been struggling badly under Solskjaer and their woes increased with a home defeat against Manchester City this week.
But Sarri firmly believes that result will mean Chelsea face an even tougher assignment at Old Trafford.
The Italian explained: “We have to play against opponents who will have a very high level of motivation after (losing) the Manchester derby. So it will be a very difficult match.
“But we have to try. We have two very important targets; the first is the top four and the second is to get to the final of the Europa League.
“For the first target, this match is important for us of course, and also for the opponents.”