Chelsea's title defence very nearly suffered another blow against Watford last weekend.

Their 4-2 victory didn't tell the full story of what was actually a close shave.

The Blues had already suffered league defeats to Burnley, Manchester City, and Crystal Palace, while in the Champions League, they threw away a two-goal lead to draw with Roma.

Roman Abramovich is not exactly a patient man, so it's no exaggeration to say that Antonio Conte has been under serious pressure, despite having steered the club to the Premier League in his first season in charge.

The Italian only signed a new contract in the summer, but somehow managed to avoid extending his deal.

Conte has never cut an entirely happy figure in England, recently telling Italian radio that he didn't plan to manage abroad for much longer.

In the summer, there was further friction relating to transfers and as a result, the squad is looking worryingly thin.

Unsurprisingly, it seems Chelsea have already begun making contingency plans as according to reports, they don't know expect the former Juventus boss to see out his remaining 20 months at the helm.

The Sun have it that should Conte be sacked or walk away, the board have identified Carlo Ancelotti - their manager between 2009-2011 - as their first choice to replace him.

Ancelotti is available 

The 58-year-old is on the hunt for a new job after being sacked by Bayern Munich earlier this season and in recent weeks, he has been spotted in attendance at a couple of Premier League games.

Like most Chelsea managers, Ancelotti did not enjoy a happy ending to his time at Stamford Bridge, as he was axed for coming second just a year after winning the title.

The three-time Champions League winner is a wanted man, with Everton and Chinese Super League clubs also said to be monitoring his situation. It's thought he would snub either of those offers and wait for the call from Abramovich, who he still has a good relationship with.

Conte's job is not under immediate threat, but it's fair to say his future remains uncertain.

Is Conte still the right man for Chelsea? Have your say in the comments.