Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas is confident that his team can challenge for the Premier League title next season.

The reigning champions have struggled to defend their crown this season and will finish outside of the European places in England's top flight for the first time since the 2002-03 season.

Antonio Conte will replace interim boss Guus Hiddink at the end of the campaign, however, and Fabregas has said that the Italian "has proven that he can work successfully".

"It is a disappointing season," Fabregas told sport1.de. "It will be the first time in years I won't play Champions League. We must come back stronger. I hope that we can compete for the title in England next year. In Antonio Conte there will be a new manager. He has proven that he can work successfully, especially at Juventus he had a strong time."

Chelsea currently sit ninth in the Premier League table on 47 points.