Rudiger aims dig at Conte following Chelsea draw

Cesar Azpilicueta's goal had put the reigning Premier League champions in the driving seat, only for a late Javier Hernandez strike to deny Chelsea all three points and leave them 10 adrift of the Champions League places.

Speaking to 'Sky Sports Italy' following the game, Rudiger expressed his frustration with Chelsea's inability to defend a lead, with comments that many have interpreted as an attack on Conte.

“I think we begged. We begged for the goal,” the German explained.

“I think in the second half we [could] finish the game [off]. But like the last few months, we didn’t and we [conceded].

“For me, it’s not easy to explain. I don’t understand why after 1-0 we always drop and let the opponent get more ball possession.

“Like the last weeks again, we [gave] them a gift. I think that was the first chance they [had].