New Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri has branded Antonio Conte "an extraordinary manager" who "reached incredible results" during his time in charge of the Blues.
Sarri was officially appointed Chelsea's new manager on Saturday, with the 59-year-old replacing Conte at the helm.
Conte led the Blues to the Premier League title in his first season in charge, but a disappointing 2017-18 campaign saw the London club finish in fifth position.
Sarri has revealed that he will look to implement a different style, but was keen to pay tribute to Conte's work during his time in London.
"I don't want to be influenced by anything or anyone. Antonio has reached incredible results, he is an extraordinary manager," Sarri told reporters at his official press conference.
"I play in a slightly different way so it will take some time for the squad. Many players still have to come back from the World Cup. All good things that Antonio did should be left. It is very important to know how to impose one's football philosophy in shorter times."
Sarri saw his Napoli contract expire at the end of last season.
Matt Law
