ANTONIO CONTE: Chelsea Legend backs his appointment but what is going on?

What is going on with Antonio Conte? Is he coming to Chelsea? Why is it taking so long to confirm? Could the reported issues with his backroom staff still be the problem?

Although I felt for Manuel Pellegrini when it was confirmed that Pep Guardiola would be taking over at Manchester City this summer before the Chilean was even given a chance to announce his departure first, I like the fact it was cut and dried, everyone knew exactly where they stood.

Typically, with Chelsea, it's always so very different and you would be better off spending you time on bingo with slots than to try and work out what is happening behind the scenes?

The Antonio Conte appointment seems to be dragging on for months now. Why has no-one come out and confirmed what is happening sooner rather than later? Guus Hiddink is only in temporary charge, the Italian FA have confirmed that he is stepping down after the European Championships this summer so what is the problem with confirming everything so we can all focus on the end of the season and look forward to next?

Frank Lampard has spoken this week and has given his opinion of Antonio Conte when asked of the forthcoming appointment. He said:

'I don't know him too well but he's got a great pedigree, a great recent record with Juventus.

I spoke with Andrea Pirlo about him and he has nothing but good words to say about him.

I think he's hard working, he'll have the players working hard. He has what fans and players like to see - that determination, that will to win.

It's a difficult job at Chelsea now considering what's happened this year, so we'll see. If it is him, I think he has the pedigree to do it, but the decision has not been made.'

He seems like the ideal choice and the one man Roman Abramovich wants here to take over and to sort out the underlying problems we have had here this season. Chelsea need a strong character to come in and demand respect and hard work if we are to get anywhere near the top four next season.

Come on Chelsea, we all know it's Antonio Conte, just come out and announce it so we can all focus on next season!