Chelsea’s Marcos Alonso says he believes what has been a “difficult year” for the club can be salvaged with a top four finish.

The Blues raced to a record Premier League title during Antonio Conte’s first season in charge, winning 30 of their 38 top flight games – however have been unable to reproduce that kind of form this time around.

Antonio Conte’s men currently sit fifth in the Premier League and five points behind fourth placed Tottenham with eight games to play.

And having been knocked out of the Champions League at the hands of Barcelona earlier this month, hopes of playing in Europe’s top competition next season are leaking progressively bleak.

However Alonso, who joined Chelsea in 2016 from Fiorentina, insists the Blues will try to finish the season strongly and cement a place in the top four.

“In England, after winning the Premier League, it is normal to have a difficult year,” he told Marca.

“Especially with the level that Manchester City are maintaining throughout the season.

“Now we have an important end of the year, to qualify for the Champions League and fight for the FA Cup. We’re looking forward to it.”

Chelsea welcome Tottenham to Stamford Bridge on Sunday in what could prove to be the most important game of the season.

Ex-Blues’ player and manager Ray Wilkins insists it is a must win game for his former side.

“It’s a must-win against Tottenham on Sunday, absolute must-win.” said Wilkins.

“Tottenham are without Harry Kane, which gives Chelsea the edge. Tottenham are in good form; I think Chelsea playing against Tottenham at Stamford Bridge will have the upper hand.”