Chelsea manager Antonio Conte has blasted suggestions that his side could be deducted points for their part in a mass brawl at Manchester City as a "joke".
The Blues were charged for the fifth time in 19 months after their involvement in scuffles between their players and City, which saw both Sergio Aguero and Fernandinho sent off in the dying minutes at the Etihad Stadium.
However, speaking after Chelsea's 1-0 win over West Bromwich Albion, Conte criticised the notion that his team should be punished with a points penalty.
He told reporters: "If you are involved in a situation and the fault is not your one, you must pay? Why?
"I don't understand this. Manchester City and Chelsea, at the end of the game, my players tried to keep their calm. I don't understand this. I repeat, I don't understand this."
Chelsea are currently one point clear of Arsenal after winning their ninth consecutive league game against the Baggies.
Chris O'Keefe
